Os palatinum

Os Palatinum

The os palatinum or palatine bone is a paired structure in the skull of many animal species, including humans. It is one of the fourteen facial bones and contributes to the formation of three cavities: the oral cavity, the nasal cavity, and the orbits. It also contributes to the shape of the hard palate, the nasal cavity, and the floor of the orbit.

Structure

The palatine bone is L-shaped, contributing to a small area at the back of the nasal cavity, a larger area of the hard palate, and the floor of the orbit. It consists of two parts: the horizontal plate, which forms the back of the hard palate, and the perpendicular plate, which forms part of the nasal cavity and the floor of the orbit.

Horizontal Plate

The horizontal plate of the palatine bone forms the posterior part of the hard palate, which separates the oral and nasal cavities. It is covered by a layer of mucous membrane and is responsible for the formation of the palatine arch.

Perpendicular Plate

The perpendicular plate of the palatine bone forms part of the lateral wall of the nasal cavity and the floor of the orbit. It is connected to several other bones, including the maxilla, the sphenoid bone, and the ethmoid bone.

Function

The palatine bone plays a crucial role in the structure of the skull. It helps to form the hard palate, which is essential for speech and swallowing. It also contributes to the shape of the nasal cavity, which is important for breathing and the sense of smell. In the orbit, it helps to protect the eye and its associated structures.

Clinical Significance

Damage or abnormalities of the palatine bone can lead to problems such as cleft palate, difficulty swallowing, and changes in the shape of the face. It can also affect the function of the eye and the nasal cavity.

See Also

• Skull
• Facial bones
• Hard palate
• Nasal cavity
• Orbit (anatomy)