The temple, commonly recognized as the 'parker's bridge' or 'temple of face,' holds a distinctive place in the human anatomy. It refers to the area on either side of the face, situated just behind the eyes, and encompasses the temporal bone as well as a portion of the sphenoid bone. The temple is a critical component of the face's support structure and plays a pivotal role in shaping its appearance.
Overview of the Temporal Region
The temporal region is a complex network of bones, muscles, blood vessels, and nerves that work together to maintain the movement and support of the face. It is divided into three main parts: the anterior, middle, and posteriorTemporal fossae, each bound by distinct margins made up of various skull bones ( Figure 1 ).
Anterior Temporal Fossa
The anterior temporal fossa is the largest and most superior part of the temporal region. It extends laterally from the zygomatic arch to the mandibular angles and is bound by the temporal bone superiorly and the superior border of the zygomatic arch laterally. Within this fossa lies the temporal muscle, which plays a crucial role in mouth closure and chewing.
Middle Temporal Fossa
The middle temporal fossa is a smaller region located between the temporalbones. It extends medially from the zygomatic arch to the temporal eminence, a protrusion on the temporal bone that forms the lower border of themiddle cranial fossa. The middle temporal fossa houses the deep temporal arteries and nerves, which supply the temporal region and surrounding tissues.
Posterior Temporal Fossa
The posterior temporal fossa is the lowest and deepest part of the temporal region. It extends inferiorly from the temporal eminence to the infratemporal crest, a bonyprojection that separates the temporal region from the pterygoid muscles. The posterior temporal fossa contains various blood vessels and nerves, as well as the zygomaticofacial nerve, which travels from the temporal region to the zygomatic arch.
Temporalis Muscle
One of the most prominent structures in the temporal region is the temporalis muscle. Located deep to the frontalis muscle, the temporalis originates from the temporal bone and inserts into the upper eyelids. It serves to elevate the upper eyelids and is involved in the movements of the mandible during mastication.
Blood Vessels and Nerves
The temporal region contains multiple blood vessels and nerves that serve the area. The superficial temporal artery, a branch of the external carotid artery, runs along the temporal surface,Supplying oxygen and nutrients to the temporal skin and underlying tissues.
accompanying the superficial temporal vein, which carries deoxygenated blood back to the circulation. The temporal branches of the maxillary nerve, a branch of the trigeminal nerve, provide sensory input to the temple region, allowing us to sense touch, temperature, and pain from the face.
Nerve Terminal Variations
Variations in the_terminal branches of the facial nerve contribute to variations in the temple region, potentially affecting the position and function of the temporalis muscle, as well as the sensory distribution in the temple.
Conclusion
The temple of face is a complex anatomical structure crucial for maintaining the movement, support, and appearance of our facial features. Understanding the relationship between the temporal region and the rest of the face is essential for anyone interested in plastic surgery, dental care, or the preservation of natural beauty.
