Digastric - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The digastric muscle is a suprahyoid muscle of the neck. It consist of two muscular bellies which are connected via a tendon. Attachments: The anterior belly arises from the digastric fossa of the mandible. The posterior belly arises from the mastoid process of the temporal bone. The two bellies are connected by an intermediate tendon, which is attached to the hyoid bone via a fibrous sling. Actions: Depresses the mandible and elevates the hyoid bone. Innervation: The anterior belly is innervated by the inferior alveolar nerve, a branch of the mandibular nerve (which is derived from the trigeminal nerve, CN V). The posterior belly is innervated by the digastric branch of the facial nerve. Blood Supply: Vertebral artery and the deep descending branch of the occipital artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Lateral view of the neck with three of the suprahyoid muscles highlighted (digastric, mylohyoid and stylohyoid) By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2Anterior view of the neck with the suprahyoid muscles highlighted. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Frequent questions What is the digastric muscle? The digastric muscle is a suprahyoid muscle located in the neck, consisting of two muscular bellies connected by an intermediate tendon. It plays a crucial role in movements involving the mandible and hyoid bone. What are the attachments of the digastric muscle? The anterior belly of the digastric muscle attaches to the digastric fossa of the mandible, while the posterior belly originates from the mastoid process of the temporal bone. Both bellies connect through a tendon that is anchored to the hyoid bone. What actions does the digastric muscle perform? The digastric muscle primarily depresses the mandible and elevates the hyoid bone. These actions are essential for functions such as swallowing and speaking. Which nerves innervate the digastric muscle? The anterior belly of the digastric muscle is innervated by the inferior alveolar nerve, a branch of the mandibular nerve, whereas the posterior belly receives innervation from the digastric branch of the facial nerve. This dual innervation facilitates its functional movements. What is the blood supply to the digastric muscle? The digastric muscle receives its blood supply from the vertebral artery and the deep descending branch of the occipital artery. This vascularisation is vital for maintaining muscle health and function. Rate This Article