Pterygoid notch

Pterygoid Notch is a significant anatomical feature found in the human skull. It is located in the Pterygoid process, which is a part of the Sphenoid bone. The Pterygoid Notch separates the lateral and medial pterygoid plates.

Etymology

The term "Pterygoid" is derived from the Greek words "pteryx" and "eidos", which mean "wing" and "form" respectively. The term "Notch" is derived from the Old English "noc", which means "a notch, a hollow or recess in a surface".

Anatomy

The Pterygoid Notch is a small, deep indentation found between the lateral and medial pterygoid plates. These plates are extensions of the sphenoid bone, which is one of the seven bones that make up the orbit of the eye. The pterygoid notch is important in the attachment of several muscles, including the Medial pterygoid muscle and the Lateral pterygoid muscle.

Clinical Significance

The Pterygoid Notch, along with the pterygoid plates, can be involved in various medical conditions. For instance, fractures of the pterygoid plates can occur due to trauma to the face or head. Such fractures can lead to complications like Trismus, which is a condition characterized by difficulty in opening the mouth due to muscle spasm or shortening.

Related Terms

• Pterygoid process
• Sphenoid bone
• Medial pterygoid muscle
• Lateral pterygoid muscle
• Trismus

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