The Hyoid Bone - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The hyoid bone is a ‘U’ shaped structure located in the anterior neck. It lies at the base of the mandible (approximately C3), where it acts as a site of attachment for the anterior neck muscles. In this article, we shall look at the anatomical structure, muscular attachments and clinical relevance of the hyoid bone. Adapted from work by OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0] Fig 1Position of the hyoid bone in the neck. 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 Structure The hyoid is composed of a body, two greater horns and two lesser horns: Body – the central part of the bone. It has an anterior convex surface and a concave posterior surface. Greater horn – projects from each end of the body in a posterior, superior and lateral direction. It acts as a site of attachment for numerous neck muscles. Lesser horn – arises from the superior aspect of the hyoid bone, near the origin of the greater horn. It projects superoposteriorly (toward the styloid process of the temporal bone). The stylohyoid ligament attaches to the apex of the lesser horn. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The major parts of the hyoid bone – body, greater horn and lesser horn. 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 Muscular Attachments The hyoid bone is unique in the fact that it does not articulate with any other bones, and is suspended in place by the muscles and ligaments that attach to it. Indeed, it acts as a site of attachment for many muscles in the neck: Oral Cavity and Pharynx Suprahyoid Infrahyoid Middle pharyngeal constrictor Hyoglossus Genioglossus Digastric Stylohyoid Geniohyoid Mylohyoid Thyrohyoid Omohyoid Sternohyoid Ligament Attachments There are three main ligaments that attach to the hyoid bone – stylohyoid, thyrohyoid and hyoepiglottic. They act to support the position of the hyoid in the neck. Stylohyoid ligament – extends from the styloid process of the temporal bone to the lesser horn of the hyoid bone. Thyrohyoid membrane – originates from the superior border of the thyroid cartilage and attaches to the posterior surface of the hyoid bone and the greater horns. Hyoepiglottic ligament – connects the hyoid bone to the anterior aspect of the epiglottis. Clinical Relevance Fracture of the Hyoid Bone The hyoid is well protected by the mandible and cervical spine, so fractures are relatively rare. Hyoid bones fractures are characteristically associated with strangulation (found in approximately 1/3 of all homicides by strangulation). It is therefore a significant post-mortem finding. They can also occur as a result of trauma, with clinical features of pain on speaking, odynophagia and dyspnoea. Do you think you’re ready? Take the quiz below Pro Feature - Quiz The Hyoid Bone Question 1 of 3 Submitting... Skip Next Rate question: You scored 0% Skipped: 0/3 1800 More Questions Available Upgrade to TeachMeAnatomy Pro Challenge yourself with over 1800 multiple-choice questions to reinforce learning Learn More Frequent questions What is the hyoid bone and where is it located? The hyoid bone is a 'U' shaped structure situated in the anterior neck, approximately at the level of the third cervical vertebra (C3). It serves as an attachment site for various muscles in the neck. What are the main components of the hyoid bone? The hyoid bone consists of a body, two greater horns, and two lesser horns. The body is the central part, while the greater horns extend posteriorly and laterally, and the lesser horns project superoposteriorly. What muscles attach to the hyoid bone? Numerous muscles attach to the hyoid bone, including the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles, as well as the middle pharyngeal constrictor, hyoglossus, and genioglossus. These attachments facilitate movements of the oral cavity and pharynx. What ligaments are associated with the hyoid bone? The hyoid bone is connected to three main ligaments: the stylohyoid ligament, the thyrohyoid membrane, and the hyoepiglottic ligament. These ligaments help maintain the position of the hyoid in the neck. What is the clinical significance of hyoid bone fractures? Fractures of the hyoid bone are rare due to its protection by the mandible and cervical spine, but they can occur in cases of strangulation or trauma. Such fractures are important post-mortem findings and may present with symptoms like pain when speaking, difficulty swallowing, and breathing difficulties. Rate This Article