The temporal fossa is a shallow depression on the side of the skull bounded by various bones including the temporal, parietal, frontal, and zygomatic bones. “Medial” in anatomical terms refers to structures closer to the midline of the body or a particular reference point. However, the temporal fossa itself is a depression rather than a structure with medial and lateral aspects.
If you’re referring to structures within the temporal fossa, there are several important ones, including:
- Temporalis Muscle: This muscle occupies much of the temporal fossa and is responsible for elevating and retracting the mandible (lower jaw) during chewing.
- Deep temporal arteries and veins: These blood vessels supply and drain the temporal region.
- Temporalis Nerve: Also known as the deep temporal nerve, it innervates the temporalis muscle.
- Zygomaticotemporal nerve: A branch of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V), it provides sensory innervation to the skin over the temple.
- Middle temporal artery and vein: These blood vessels course through the temporal fossa.
- Fat pads: Adipose tissue is often present within the temporal fossa.
These structures are not specifically “medial” within the temporal fossa but are integral to its anatomy and function. If you have a specific structure or aspect of the temporal fossa you’d like to know more about, feel free to ask!