The temporal lines are two curved ridges that arch across the side of the skull, starting at the zygomatic process of the frontal bone and sweeping backward over the frontal and parietal bones. The superior line gives attachment to the temporal fascia, and the inferior line marks the upper limit of origin of the temporalis muscle. Together they outline the temporal fossa on the side of the head.
| Articulations |
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|---|---|
| Landmarks |
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| Ossification | Ridges formed on the membrane-ossified frontal and parietal bones as the temporalis muscle and its fascia develop; they become more distinct in adults. |
The temporal lines are useful surgical landmarks: the superior temporal line marks where the temporal fascia fuses with the pericranium, and the frontal branch of the facial nerve crosses the region below and in front of it, so dissection planes in brow lifts and temporal approaches are chosen with these lines in mind. In pterional craniotomy the temporalis muscle is detached from below the inferior temporal line, and poor reattachment can leave a visible hollow in the temple.
A visible depression in the temple after surgery that detaches the temporalis muscle from the skull, from muscle atrophy or poor reattachment along the temporal lines.
Tension-type pain in the temple related to overactivity of the temporalis muscle, often linked to jaw clenching or bruxism.
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