SPHENOID PROCESS Meaning and
Definition
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The sphenoid process is a term used in anatomy to refer to a specific bony projection or structure called the pterygoid process located on the sphenoid bone of the skull. The sphenoid bone is a single, irregularly shaped bone situated at the base of the skull, forming part of the cranial floor and the sides of the skull. It is butterfly-shaped, with a body in the center and wings extending out on either side.
The sphenoid process, also known as the pterygoid process, is a pair of elongated, thin, and flattened bony plates on the sphenoid bone. These processes project vertically downwards from the sphenoid body, resembling wings or blades. They are divided into two main parts: the medial and lateral pterygoid plates.
The medial pterygoid plate forms the posterior part of the nasal cavity and helps support structures within the skull, such as the brain and the nearby facial bones. It also serves as an attachment site for several muscles involved in chewing and swallowing.
The lateral pterygoid plate is associated with the temporomandibular joint and functions in the movement and stabilization of the lower jaw. It provides attachment points for muscles involved in jaw movement, including the lateral pterygoid muscle.
Overall, the sphenoid process plays crucial roles in the structural integrity and function of the skull, particularly with regard to breathing, chewing, and overall oral and craniofacial movements.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPHENOID PROCESS
- sphenoid proceqs
- sphenoid procers
- sphenoid proces3
- sphenoid procesc
- sphenoid procesq
- sphenoid procesr
- sph enoid process
- sphe noid process
- sphen oid process
- spheno id process
- sphenoi d process
- sphenoid pr ocess
- sphenoid pro cess
- sphenoid proc ess
- sphenoid proce ss
- sphenoid proces s
Etymology of SPHENOID PROCESS
The word "sphenoid" comes from the Greek word "sphēnoeidēs", which means "wedge-shaped". It is derived from the Greek word "sphēn", meaning "wedge". "Process" originates from the Latin word "processus", which means "a going forth, advance, progress, or procedure". In anatomy, a process refers to a bony prominence or projection. Therefore, the term "sphenoid process" refers to a wedge-shaped bony projection or prominence of the sphenoid bone.
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