FOSSA TEMPORALIS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "fossa temporalis" refers to a specific anatomical structure located within the skull. The word "fossa" originates from Latin and translates to "pit" or "hollow," while "temporalis" refers to the temporal region of the head in human anatomy.
In human anatomy, the fossa temporalis, also known as the temporal fossa, is a shallow depression found on each side of the skull, positioned above and in front of the ear. It is bound by various bony structures, including the temporal bone, zygomatic arch, and frontal and parietal bones. The temporalis muscle, primarily responsible for the movement of the lower jaw during chewing, resides within this fossa.
The fossa temporalis plays a crucial role in protecting and housing the temporalis muscle. It provides a concavity or hollow region for the muscle to rest and helps facilitate its movement during jaw action. Furthermore, the fossa temporalis serves as a landmark for anatomical and surgical reference, especially within the field of maxillofacial surgery.
The size and shape of the fossa temporalis can vary among individuals, which can have clinical implications for surgical procedures involving the area. Understanding the precise location and anatomy of this structure is vital for professionals in fields such as anatomy, neurosurgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and radiology.
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Temporal fossa, the space on the side of the cranium bounded by the temporal lines and terminating below at the level of the zygomatic arch.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for FOSSA TEMPORALIS
- dossa temporalis
- cossa temporalis
- vossa temporalis
- gossa temporalis
- tossa temporalis
- rossa temporalis
- fissa temporalis
- fkssa temporalis
- flssa temporalis
- fpssa temporalis
- f0ssa temporalis
- f9ssa temporalis
- foasa temporalis
- fozsa temporalis
- foxsa temporalis
- fodsa temporalis
- foesa temporalis
- fowsa temporalis
- fosaa temporalis
- fosza temporalis
Etymology of FOSSA TEMPORALIS
The word "fossa temporalis" is derived from Latin. Here is the breakdown of its etymology:
1. Fossa: This Latin word translates to "ditch" or "trench". It comes from the Latin verb "fodere", meaning "to dig".
2. Temporalis: This Latin adjective means "pertaining to the temples" and is derived from the noun "tempus", which translates to "temple" or "side of the head". The word "tempus" is believed to have originated from the Proto-Indo-European root "*temp-", meaning "stretch" or "extend".
Therefore, when combined, "fossa temporalis" refers to the "temporal fossa", which is a shallow depression on the side of the skull where the temporal muscle resides.
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