Removal of the Temporalis Muscle from Its Origin: Effects on the Size and Shape of the Coronoid Process

Abstract

In 10 guinea pigs the temporalis muscle was removed from its origin, leaving the fibers attached to the coronoid process undisturbed. After 80 days no changes in the size or shape of this process was noted. Removal of the temporalis muscle from its skull origin to decrease or eliminate muscle tension, yet maintain an intact blood supply did not cause any changes in the size or shape of the coronoid process. Previously noted changes in the coronoid process and mandibular angle were not due to the lack of muscle tension but to an inadequate blood supply to the area for, as shown in other studies, the blood supply of the coronoid process, angle and condyle arises from arteries that supply the muscles attached to these processes and not from the inferior alveolar artery.