Anterior auricular muscle

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== Anterior Auricular Muscle ==

The anterior auricular muscle is one of the extrinsic ear muscles that is responsible for the movement of the auricle (external part of the ear). It is a small, fan-shaped muscle located in front of the ear.

Anatomy

The anterior auricular muscle originates from the temporal fascia and the epicranial aponeurosis. It inserts into the front part of the helix of the auricle. The muscle fibers are oriented in a vertical direction.

Innervation

The anterior auricular muscle is innervated by the temporal branch of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This nerve is responsible for the motor control of the muscle.

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the anterior auricular muscle is provided by branches of the superficial temporal artery, which is a branch of the external carotid artery.

Function

The primary function of the anterior auricular muscle is to move the auricle forward. This movement is generally subtle in humans and is more pronounced in some other mammals.

Clinical Significance

While the anterior auricular muscle has limited functional significance in humans, it can be involved in certain medical conditions. For example, it may be affected in cases of facial nerve paralysis, which can impact the movement of the auricle.

See Also

• Extrinsic ear muscles
• Facial nerve
• Temporal fascia
• Superficial temporal artery