ZYGOMATIC BONE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ZYGOMATIC BONE AR ATLAS
AR Figure 66 – Zygomatic bone: Disarticulated view, Augmented Illustration by B. Leahu – MD. This image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0).
The , commonly known as the cheekbone, plays a crucial role in the facial skeleton by forming the prominence of the cheeks and contributing to the lateral wall and floor of the orbit. four bones, creating a strong and stable structure that supports facial expressions and protects vital sensory organs. These articulations are with: The frontal bone, The sphenoid bone, The maxilla, The temporal bone.
AR Figure 67 – Zygomatic bone: Anterior view, Augmented Illustration by B. Leahu – MD. This image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0).
The zygomatic bone is a paired, diamond-shaped bone that forms the prominence of the cheeks and part of the lateral wall and floor of the orbit. Its is convex and smooth, constituting the outer aspect of the cheek. This surface is pierced by the , a small opening that transmits the zygomaticofacial nerve and vessels to the facial structures. Extending superiorly from the bone is the , a thin, elongated projection that articulates with the frontal bone. This process contributes to the formation of the lateral wall of the orbit and provides attachment points for facial muscles. The , located on the frontal process, is a bony prominence that serves as an attachment site for the lateral palpebral ligament and parts of the orbicularis oculi muscle, playing a role in eyelid movement. Projecting posteriorly, the extends to meet the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, together forming the zygomatic arch. This arch is significant in the attachment of muscles involved in mastication.
AR Figure 68 – Zygomatic bone: Posterior view, Augmented Illustration by B. Leahu – MD. This image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0).
The temporal surface of the zygomatic bone is the inner aspect that faces the temporal bone, contributing to the formation of the temporal and infratemporal fossae. This surface is concave and houses the , which transmits the zygomaticotemporal nerve, supplying sensation to the skin of the temple region. On the posterior margin of the frontal process lies the , a raised area that provides additional surface area for muscle attachment and contributes to the bone's articulation with adjacent structures.
AR Figure 69 – Zygomatic bone: Orbital surface, Augmented Illustration by B. Leahu – MD. This image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0).
The forms a significant part of the lateral wall and floor of the orbit, contributing to the protection of the eye. This smooth surface features an opening known as that allows passage of the zygomatic nerve branches into the orbit.
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