Innervation analysis of the small muscle bundles attached to the temporalis: truly new muscles or merely derivatives of the temporalis?

Abstract

Detailed examinations were performed in ten temporal muscles from five cadavers to identify the muscle bundle arrangements of the temporalis and their innervation. Three additional muscle bundles were clearly observed in the main part of the fan-shaped temporalis: the anteromedial, anterolateral, and mid-lateral muscle bundles. Based on the origins, insertions and detailed innervation patterns, these bundles were considered as parts of the temporalis rather than independent muscles, although the anteromedial and anterolateral bundles had been recently reported as newly described muscles. A possible schematic model of the origins of these muscle bundles is proposed. We also report a branch from the posterior deep temporal nerve which was distributed to the temporal fascia and to the skin of the temporal region.