Temporal fossa is a term used in anatomy to describe a shallow depression on the side of the skull where the temporal muscle attaches. The spelling of this word is phonetically represented as /ˈtɛmpərəl ˈfɒsə/. The first syllable "temp" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by the syllable "oral", which is pronounced with a long "o" sound. The second word "fossa" is pronounced with a short "o" sound, followed by the vowel sound "a" as in the word father. Together, these syllables create the pronunciation of "temporal fossa."
The temporal fossa refers to a shallow depression or hollow region found on the lateral side of the skull, specifically towards the temples. It is commonly located above the zygomatic arch. The term "temporal fossa" is derived from the Latin words "temporalis," meaning "of the temple," and "fossa," meaning "trench" or "depression."
The temporal fossa serves as an anatomical landmark and is of great significance due to its association with various structures. It encompasses several important components such as muscles, blood vessels, nerves, and glands. The temporalis muscle, one of the major muscles responsible for chewing or mastication, is located within this fossa. It originates from various points including the temporal fossa itself and inserts into the coronoid process of the mandible.
Additionally, the temporal fossa harbors the deep temporal arteries, which are vital for supplying blood to the temporalis muscle. It also houses the deep temporal nerves, which are branches of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V). These nerves provide sensory innervation to the temporalis muscle.
The size and shape of the temporal fossa may vary among individuals, with factors such as age, genetics, and overall health influencing its characteristics. The temporal fossa plays a crucial role in various clinical disciplines including craniofacial surgery, maxillofacial surgery, and dentistry, where a thorough understanding of its anatomy and structure is necessary for accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
Fossa temporalis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "temporal" comes from the Latin word "tempus", meaning "time". "Fossa" is also from Latin and means "ditch" or "trench". The term "temporal fossa" refers to a shallow depression or hollow area on the side of the skull where the temporal muscle is located. It is called "temporal fossa" because it is a time-related anatomical feature that has been referred to as a "ditch" or "trench" due to its concave shape.