The term "hiatus maxillaris" is common in dentistry and refers to a gap or space in the upper jaw. The word is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /haɪˈeɪtəs mækˈsɪlərɪs/. The first syllable "hi-" is pronounced like "high", followed by "a-" as in "bat" and "tus" like "tuss". "Maxillaris" is pronounced as "mak-sil-uh-ris", with emphasis on the second syllable. This spelling allows for precise pronunciation and avoids confusion that may arise due to variations in spelling across different languages.
Hiatus maxillaris is a medical term that refers to a specific anatomical structure found in the human body. It is derived from the Latin words "hiatus," meaning opening or gap, and "maxillaris," referring to the maxilla, which is the upper jawbone.
In anatomy, the hiatus maxillaris is a term used to describe the natural opening or space located within the maxillary sinus. The maxillary sinus is one of the paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located within the facial bones. The hiatus maxillaris is specifically observed in the posterior part of the maxillary sinus, often close to the apex or bottom area.
The function of the hiatus maxillaris is to provide a pathway or channel for certain anatomical structures, such as blood vessels and nerves. This opening allows for the passage of important structures that supply the maxillary sinus with blood and innervation.
Clinically, the hiatus maxillaris can become significant when it becomes obstructed or blocked due to various reasons, such as sinus infections, tumors, or trauma. This obstruction can lead to impaired drainage of the maxillary sinus, resulting in inflammation or accumulation of fluids, causing symptoms like pain, pressure, or congestion in the affected area.
Understanding the location and function of the hiatus maxillaris is important for medical professionals when diagnosing and treating conditions related to the maxillary sinus, as well as during surgical interventions or procedures in this region.
Maxillary hiatus, the opening into the antrum of Highmore on the nasal surface of the superior maxilla.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term hiatus maxillaris is a Latin phrase that is commonly used in medical terminology. Here is the breakdown of its etymology:
- Hiatus comes from the Latin word hiare, which means to gape or to open wide.
- Maxillaris is derived from the Latin word maxilla, which refers to the upper jawbone or the jaw in general.
So, when combined, hiatus maxillaris can be understood as the maxillary hiatus or the gaping opening in the upper jawbone.