How Do You Spell ZYGOMATIC FOSSA?

1. The zygomatic fossa is a term used in anatomy to describe a specific area in the human skull. It is a shallow depression located on the lateral aspect of the skull, specifically on the temporal bone. The zygomatic fossa is situated just below the zygomatic arch, also known as the cheekbone, and is positioned anterior to the external acoustic meatus, which is the ear canal.

   This fossa serves as a significant attachment site for various structures, including muscle and ligaments. Specifically, it provides an attachment point for the zygomaticus and masseter muscles, which play key roles in facial expressions and chewing respectively. Additionally, the zygomatic fossa also serves as a passage for the zygomaticotemporal nerve, a branch of the maxillary nerve, which carries sensory information from the temple region of the face.

   The zygomatic fossa is an important landmark in craniofacial anatomy. Its shape and depth may vary among individuals due to various factors such as age and genetics. Pathological conditions or injuries involving the zygomatic fossa can result in pain, difficulty in jaw movement, or other functional and anatomical complications. Understanding the intricate details and functions of this anatomical structure is crucial in the fields of dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, and craniofacial research, as it contributes to the overall harmony and function of the facial skeleton.

2. Fossa infratemporalis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ZYGOMATIC FOSSA

The word "zygomatic fossa" comes from the combination of two terms: "zygomatic" and "fossa".

1. "Zygomatic" refers to the zygomatic bone, also known as the cheekbone or malar bone. This bone forms the prominence of the cheek and articulates with the temporal bone to create the zygomatic arch. The term "zygomatic" originated from the Greek word "zygoma", which means "a yoke" or "the bone of the cheek".

2. "Fossa" generally refers to a depression or a hollow cavity. In the context of anatomy, it specifically represents a shallow or hollow area in a bone. The word "fossa" is derived from the Latin term for "ditch" or "trench".