Bones of the Head

Overview

The bones of the head form the protective framework for the brain and support the facial structures. This section introduces the cranial and facial bones that shape the skull and provide attachment points for muscles and ligaments.

Key Structures

Topics include the frontal, sphenoid, ethmoid, temporal and occipital bones; the maxilla and mandible; the bony orbit; nasal skeleton; and the cranial foramina that transmit vessels and nerves.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Skeletal anatomy of the head is central to trauma assessment, imaging interpretation and surgical planning. Understanding landmarks and foramina supports localisation of lesions and evaluation of fractures and nerve injury.

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Anterior view illustration of the frontal bone.

The Frontal Bone

Diagram illustrating the Le Fort classification of maxillary fractures, featuring three types: Type I (red) - horizontal fracture of the maxilla; Type II (blue) - pyramidal fracture involving the nasal bridge and adjacent structures; Type III (green) - craniofacial separation from the skull base.

The Maxilla

External surface of the occipital bone anatomy illustration.

The Occipital Bone

Bones of the Skull

Lateral view of the skull highlighting the temporal bone.

The Temporal Bone

The Sphenoid Bone

The Ethmoid Bone

Lateral view of the nasal septum highlighting its bones and cartilage.

The Nasal Skeleton

Illustration of muscular attachments to the mandible, highlighting connections on the body and ramus.

The Mandible

Superior view of the skull base illustrating the foramina and the associated cranial nerves.

The Cranial Foramina

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