The temporal suture is a term used in anatomy to describe the joint where the temporal bone of the skull meets the parietal bone. The word "temporal" is pronounced with a stress on the second syllable and a short "e" sound followed by a long "m" sound. The word "suture" is pronounced with a stress on the first syllable and a short "u" sound followed by a long "t" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription of "temporal suture" is /ˈtɛmpərəl ˈsuːtjər/. Knowing the IPA transcription can help with the precise pronunciation of this term.
Temporal suture refers to a type of anatomical connection or joint found in the cranium or skull of vertebrate organisms, specifically in the region of the temples. It is a fibrous joint that connects the temporal bone, which forms part of the side and base of the skull, to the parietal bone, which forms the uppermost part of the sides and back of the cranium.
The temporal suture is commonly observed in various species, including humans and other mammals. It is considered a synarthrosis joint, meaning it is immovable and lacks the presence of a synovial cavity. Instead, this suture is held together by fibrous connective tissues known as sutures.
Functionally, the temporal suture plays a significant role in providing strength and stability to the skull structure. It aids in distributing forces and pressures that may be exerted on the skull during various activities such as chewing, biting, or impact to the head region. Additionally, it supports the overall shape and structure of the skull, ensuring proper protection for the brain and other internal organs.
In medical contexts, the temporal suture is a notable anatomical landmark used to determine the age and development of a skull. It serves as a reference point for assessing cranial growth and development through different life stages. Moreover, abnormalities or injuries to the temporal suture may be of clinical significance, requiring examination and intervention by medical professionals.
Sutura petrosquamosa.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "temporal" in "temporal suture" is derived from the Latin word "temporalis", which means "of or pertaining to the temples". The word "suture" has its roots in the Latin word "sutura", meaning "a seam or sewing together". In medical terminology, a suture refers to the act of stitching or sewing together body tissues, usually performed during surgery, to promote healing and closure. Therefore, the term "temporal suture" specifically refers to the act of suturing or stitching together tissues around the temples region.