Os temporale

Os Temporale

The os temporale or temporal bone is one of the four major bones that constitute the human skull. It is situated on the sides and base of the skull, and lateral to the temporal lobe of the cerebrum. The os temporale is involved in several important functions, including housing structures of the ear and contributing to the formation of the temporomandibular joint.

Structure

The os temporale is a complex bone that can be divided into four main parts: the squamous part, the tympanic part, the mastoid part, and the petrous part.

Squamous Part

The squamous part is the largest and most superiorly positioned relative to the rest of the bone. It contains the zygomatic process, which articulates with the zygomatic bone and forms part of the zygomatic arch.

Tympanic Part

The tympanic part is located inferior to the squamous part and anterior to the mastoid part. It forms the anterior wall, inferior wall, and part of the posterior wall of the external acoustic meatus, a canal that leads to the tympanic membrane (eardrum).

Mastoid Part

The mastoid part is located posterior to the tympanic part. It contains the mastoid process, a conical projection of bone that can be felt behind the ear. The mastoid part also contains the mastoid air cells, which are connected to the middle ear.

Petrous Part

The petrous part is the most medial and is shaped like a pyramid. It houses the structures of the inner ear, including the cochlea and the vestibular system, which are involved in hearing and balance, respectively.

Function

The os temporale plays a crucial role in several functions. It houses the structures of the ear, which are involved in hearing and balance. It also forms part of the temporomandibular joint, which allows for movement of the jaw.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location and the vital structures it houses, the os temporale can be involved in several clinical conditions. These include temporal bone fracture, mastoiditis, and conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint such as temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

See Also

• Human skull
• Ear
• Temporomandibular joint
• Temporal bone fracture
• Mastoiditis
• Temporomandibular joint dysfunction