The infratemporal fossa is a deep, pyramidal-shaped space located within the skull, inferior to the temporal bone and lateral to the pharynx. It is bounded by a number of important structures including the temporal bone, the mandible, the zygomatic bone, and the pterygoid process.
Structure
The infratemporal fossa is divided into two main regions: the upper and lower infratemporal fossa.
The upper infratemporal fossa is located superior to the mandible and contains the temporalis muscle, which is responsible for elevation and retraction of the mandible. The upper infratemporal fossa also contains the infratemporal crest, which is a ridge of bone that separates the upper and lower infratemporal fossa.
The lower infratemporal fossa is located inferior to the mandible and contains a number of important structures including the pterygoid muscles, the maxillary artery, the pterygoid venous plexus, and the pterygoid nerves. The pterygoid muscles are responsible for lateral and protrusive movement of the mandible and are composed of the medial and lateral pterygoid muscles. The maxillary artery is a branch of the external carotid artery and supplies blood to the infratemporal fossa and the surrounding structures. The pterygoid venous plexus is a network of veins that drain blood from the infratemporal fossa and the pterygoid muscles. The pterygoid nerves are branches of the trigeminal nerve (CN V) and supply sensory innervation to the infratemporal fossa and the surrounding structures.
Location
The infratemporal fossa is located within the skull, inferior to the temporal bone and lateral to the pharynx. It is bounded by a number of structures including the temporal bone, the mandible, the zygomatic bone, and the pterygoid process. The infratemporal fossa is connected to the oral cavity via the infratemporal space, which is a small opening located between the pterygoid process and the ramus of the mandible.
Function
It plays a number of important roles in the body including the following:
- Muscular function: The infratemporal fossa contains the temporalis and pterygoid muscles, which are responsible for elevation, retraction, and protrusion of the mandible.
- Vascular function: The infratemporal fossa contains the maxillary artery, which supplies blood to the infratemporal fossa and the surrounding structures.
- Nervous function: The infratemporal fossa contains the pterygoid nerves, which are branches of the trigeminal nerve (CN V) and supply sensory innervation to the infratemporal fossa and the surrounding structures.
Clinical Significance
There are a number of conditions that can affect the infratemporal fossa and the surrounding structures, including the following:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: The TMJ is located at the junction of the temporal bone and the mandible and is responsible for movement of the mandible. Disorders of the TMJ can cause pain and dysfunction of the infratemporal fossa and the surrounding structures.
- Dental abscesses: Dental abscesses are infections of the teeth and gums that can spread to the infratemporal fossa and cause pain and swelling.
- Head and neck cancer: Tumors in the head and neck region, including the infratemporal fossa, can cause a variety of symptoms including pain, swelling, difficulty swallowing, and changes in speech. Treatment for head and neck cancer may involve surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
- Trauma: Trauma to the head and neck region, including the infratemporal fossa, can cause a variety of injuries including fractures, lacerations, and nerve damage. Treatment for trauma may involve surgery, medication, and physical therapy.
- Sinusitis: Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that can cause pressure and pain in the infratemporal fossa and the surrounding structures. Treatment for sinusitis may involve antibiotics, decongestants, and nasal irrigation.
- Temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJS): TMJS is a condition that causes pain and dysfunction of the TMJ and the surrounding structures, including the infratemporal fossa. Treatment for TMJS may involve medications, physical therapy, and surgery.
Examination and Diagnosis
The infratemporal fossa can be examined using a variety of methods including physical examination, imaging studies, and diagnostic tests.
- Physical examination: During a physical examination, a healthcare provider will typically examine the head and neck region, including the infratemporal fossa, for signs of swelling, tenderness, and deformity. The provider may also test for range of motion of the mandible and any changes in speech or swallowing.
- Imaging studies: Imaging studies, such as CT scans and MRI scans, can provide detailed images of the infratemporal fossa and the surrounding structures. These studies can help to identify any abnormalities or abnormalities such as tumors, fractures, or inflammation.
- Diagnostic tests: Diagnostic tests, such as blood tests and biopsies, can be used to identify the cause of any abnormalities or symptoms in the infratemporal fossa.
