Superficial head of medial pterygoid muscle - MRI head and neck - Axial - e-Anatomy
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Superficial head of medial pterygoid muscle

Caput superficiale musculi pterygoidei medialis

Definition

Muhammad A. Javaid

The superficial head of medial pterygoid muscle arises from the maxillary tuberosity and the pyramidal process of the palatine bone. Its fibers join the deep head to insert on the medial surface of the ramus and angle of the mandible. It assists the deep head in elevating and protruding the mandible and contributes slightly to side-to-side movements during mastication.

Click here for a detailed description of the medial pterygoid muscle.

References

  • Basit H, Tariq MA, Siccardi MA. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Mastication Muscles. [Updated 2023 Jun 5]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541027/

  • Gray, H. (2016) Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st edn. Edited by S. Standring. New York: Elsevier. Chapter 32: Infratemporal and pterygopalatine fossae and temporomandibular joint, pp. 546-548.

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