Greater Sphenoid Wing's Temporal Surface, Lateral View

Description

Greater wing of the sphenoid occupies the lateral cranial wall in this fixed lateral perspective, with the temporal surface forming a broad, gently convex plate within the temporal fossa. Superiorly it approaches the frontal and parietal bones at the region of the pterion, while anteriorly it contributes toward the sphenoid’s orbital margin and posteriorly blends toward the squamous temporal bone. The infratemporal crest marks the transition inferiorly toward the infratemporal surface, creating a distinct change in slope where deep fibers of temporalis relate to the skull base. Bony sutural boundaries and curvature are emphasized to orient the greater wing within the skull’s lateral contour. A key landmark. Attachment of the temporalis muscle to this temporal surface matters in both anatomy teaching and operative planning, because surgical corridors for pterional and frontotemporal craniotomies traverse the same layered region of scalp, temporalis, and periosteum before the surgeon reaches the sphenoid and frontal bones. Fractures at or near the pterion can lacerate the middle meningeal artery deep to the calvaria, producing an epidural hematoma, so appreciating how the greater sphenoid wing sits just deep to the temporal fossa helps explain why a seemingly “temple” impact can become a neurosurgical emergency. Focused lighting and the isolated bony surface make the infratemporal crest and the muscular footprint easier to teach than in a fully assembled skull. Use this illustration in head and neck anatomy courses when introducing the temporal fossa, temporalis muscle attachments, and the osteology of the sphenoid in relation to common cranial fracture patterns. It also fits neurosurgery and otolaryngology teaching files that discuss pterional approaches and the surface anatomy of the temple overlying the pterion. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.