Infratemporal Fossa
The infratemporal fossa is a space located beneath the base of the skull, situated behind the upper jawbone, or maxilla. It plays a crucial role in the anatomy of the head, housing important structures such as muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. This area is bounded by several bones, including the sphenoid and temporal bones.
Within the infratemporal fossa, key components include the mandibular nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the lower face, and the maxillary artery, a major blood supply to the face. The fossa also contains the medial and lateral pterygoid muscles, which are essential for jaw movement during chewing.