Stylohyoid

Stylohyoid is a muscle in the human anatomy that is part of the suprahyoid muscles group. It is named for its two attachment points: the styloid process of the temporal bone and the hyoid bone.

Function

The stylohyoid muscle acts to elevate and retract the hyoid bone, which assists in swallowing and speech. It is innervated by the facial nerve.

Structure

The stylohyoid muscle is a slender muscle, lying anterior, superior, and slightly medial to the sternocleidomastoid. It originates from the back of the styloid process of the temporal bone and inserts into the body of the hyoid bone.

Clinical significance

An elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament can lead to a syndrome known as Eagle's syndrome, which can cause pain in the throat and difficulty swallowing.

See also

• Hyoid bone
• Styloid process
• Suprahyoid muscles
• Eagle's syndrome

References

Stylohyoid Resources
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