Auricularis superior

Auricularis Superior

The Auricularis Superior is a thin, fan-shaped muscle located in the human anatomical structure. It is one of the three auricular muscles that control the movements of the ear. The other two muscles are the auricularis anterior and the auricularis posterior.

Function

The primary function of the Auricularis Superior is to assist in the movement of the ear. It works in conjunction with the other auricular muscles to enable subtle movements of the ear towards sound. However, in humans, this function is often less pronounced than in many other mammals.

Anatomy

The Auricularis Superior is located above the pinna (the visible part of the ear). It originates from the galea aponeurotica, a tough layer of dense fibrous tissue which covers the upper part of the cranium. The muscle inserts into the cranial surface of the pinna.

Clinical Significance

While the Auricularis Superior is not typically associated with major medical conditions, damage or trauma to this muscle can result in difficulty moving the ear. In some cases, surgical procedures involving the ear may require careful navigation around this muscle to avoid damage.

See Also

• Auricularis muscles
• Human ear
• Facial muscles

References

• Gray's Anatomy
• Anatomy of the Human Body