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Anatomy of the temporalis fascia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

P. J. Wormald  and
T. Alun-Jones
P. J. Wormald*
Affiliation:
Cape Town, South Africa
T. Alun-Jones
Affiliation:
Cape Town, South Africa
*
Dr P. J. Wormald, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Abstract

The anatomy of the different layers of the temporalis fascia is reviewed. The superficial and deep layers of the temporalis fascia have been studied by light microscopy to assess any histological difference between the two. We have also assessed the physical characteristics of the different layers by measuring their Young's modulus in the wet and dry states.

Anatomically the superficial layer is part of the epicranial aponeurosis and thus covers nearly the entire lateral aspect of the skull. The deep temporal fascial layer covers exactly the temporalis muscle and measures 10 × 12 cm. The fascial layers have a separate arterial and venous supply enabling them to be used as a homograft, a rotation flap or free microvascular flap. Histologically there is no difference between the two layers. A study of the physical characteristics of the two fascial layers using Young's modulus revealed no significant difference in elasticity between the two. The most significant factor affecting the elasticity was the state of hydration of the fascia.

Keywords

Temporalis fasciaMyringoplasty
Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 105 , Issue 7 , July 1991 , pp. 522 - 524
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1991

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