Inferotemporal Fossa

The inferotemporal fossa (fossa infratemporalis) is a depression on the posterior surface of the temporal bone, which is located between the occipital bone and the temporal muscle. It is crescent-shaped and is one of the most prominent anatomical features of the human skull.

The inferotemporal fossa is the location of the temporomandibular joint. It contains the joint capsule, which contains the articular surfaces and synovial fluid. The inferotemporal fossa also contains nerve fibers, blood vessels and other structures necessary for the functioning of the temporomandibular joint and the maxillofacial region in general.

In medical practice, the inferotemporal fossa can be affected by various diseases, such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, cancer and others. It can also be injured due to fractures and other head injuries.

Thus, the inferotemporal fossa plays an important role in human anatomy and physiology and may be associated with various diseases and injuries.