Coronoid process of the mandible


In human anatomy, the mandible's coronoid process is a thin, triangular eminence, which is flattened from side to side and varies in shape and size. Its anterior border is convex and is continuous below with the anterior border of the ramus. Its posterior border is concave and forms the anterior boundary of the mandibular notch. The lateral surface is smooth, and affords insertion to the temporalis and masseter muscles. Its medial surface gives insertion to the temporalis, and presents a ridge which begins near the apex of the process and runs downward and forward to the inner side of the last molar tooth.
Between this ridge and the anterior border is a grooved triangular area, the upper part of which gives attachment to the temporalis, the lower part to some fibers of the buccinator.

Coronoid process fractures

Mandible fractures are common injuries. However, coronoid process fractures are very rare. Isolated fractures of the coronoid process caused by direct trauma are rare, as it is anatomically protected by the complex zygomatic arch/ temporo-zygomatic bone and their associated muscles. Most fractures here are caused by strokes.

Additional images


File:Coronoid process of Mandible.gif|Position of coronoid process in skull. Animation.
File:Coronoid process of Mandible - close-up - animation.gif| Position of coronoid process in mandible. Animation.
File:Processuscoronoideusmandibulae.PNG|Mandible. Outer surface. Side view.
File:Processuscoronoideusmandibulae2.png|Medial surface.
File:Gray382.png| The Temporalis; the zygomatic arch and Masseter have been removed.
File:Slide8oooo.JPG|Coronoid process of mandible
File:Slide2cec.JPG|Mandibular nerve and bone. Deep dissection. Anterior view.
File:Slide7cece.JPG|Infratemporal fossa. Lingual and inferior alveolar nerve. Deep dissection. Anterolateral view