Anatomy & Physiology: Bones—Hyoid.
Structure.
- Unique as the hyoid doesn’t articulate with any other bone. Ligaments and muscles suspend the hyoid between the mandible and larynx.
- U-shaped.
- Greater horns: paired; the rounded end of the side of the “U”.
- Lesser horns: paired; the small triangular bump (fang-shaped) lateral to the body.
Function.
- Supports tongue.
- Serves as attachment points for the tongue muscles and muscles for the pharynx and larynx.
Clinical Significance.
- In strangulation and hangings, the hyoid is often fractured.
Hyoid. Used with permission by 3D4Medical.
References
Biel, A. (2015). Trail guide to the body: A hands-on guide to locating muscles, bones and more.
Jenkins, G., & Tortora, G. J. (2012). Anatomy and Physiology: From Science to Life, 3rd Edition International Stu. John Wiley & Sons.
Muscolino, J. E. (2017). The muscular system manual: The skeletal muscles of the human body.
