Pterygoid
Pterygoid
Pterygoid (pronunciation: /ˈtɛrɪɡɔɪd/) is a term used in anatomy that refers to two muscles in the jaw, namely the lateral pterygoid muscle and the medial pterygoid muscle. The term is derived from the Greek words "pteryx" which means "wing" and "eidos" which means "form" or "shape".
Etymology
The term "pterygoid" is derived from the Greek words "pteryx" (meaning wing) and "eidos" (meaning form or shape). This is due to the wing-like shape of the pterygoid process in the skull, to which the pterygoid muscles are attached.
Pterygoid Muscles
The pterygoid muscles are two muscles that are part of the masticatory system, which is responsible for the movements of the jaw. These muscles are:
- Lateral pterygoid muscle: This muscle is responsible for opening the jaw and moving it from side to side.
- Medial pterygoid muscle: This muscle works in tandem with the masseter muscle to close the jaw and also assists in side to side movement.
Related Terms
- Pterygoid process: A process of the sphenoid bone, consisting of two plates.
- Pterygoid fossa: A depression located between the lateral and medial pterygoid plates.
- Pterygoid hamulus: A hook-like process located at the lower extremity of the medial pterygoid plate.
- Pterygoid canal: A foramen in the base of the skull, transmitting the nerve of the pterygoid canal.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pterygoid
- Wikipedia's article - Pterygoid
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