Sphenozygomatic suture

Sphenozygomatic suture is a cranial suture that occurs where the sphenoid bone and the zygomatic bone meet. This suture is one of many that connect the bones of the skull and allow for its growth and development.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "sphenozygomatic" is derived from the Greek words "sphen", meaning wedge, and "zygoma", meaning yoke. The term "suture" comes from the Latin "sutura", meaning seam. Thus, the sphenozygomatic suture is a seam or joint between the wedge-shaped sphenoid bone and the yoke-like zygomatic bone.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The sphenozygomatic suture is located on the lateral side of the skull, near the eye socket. It is a small, relatively short suture that connects the sphenoid bone, which forms part of the base of the skull, with the zygomatic bone, which forms the cheekbone and part of the eye socket.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Like other cranial sutures, the sphenozygomatic suture can be used as a landmark in surgical procedures involving the skull. It is also of interest in forensic anthropology and archaeology, as the pattern and timing of suture closure can provide information about age at death.

Related terms[edit | edit source]

Cranial suture: A fibrous joint that connects the bones of the skull.
Sphenoid bone: A bone at the base of the skull, located behind the eyes and below the front part of the brain. It has a complex shape and is often described as resembling a butterfly or a bat.
Zygomatic bone: Also known as the cheekbone, this bone forms part of the eye socket and the prominence of the cheek.

See also[edit | edit source]

Sphenozygomatic suture Resources
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