AURICULAR TRIANGLE Meaning and
Definition
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The auricular triangle refers to a specific anatomical region found on the lateral aspect of the human head. It is formed by the confluence of three prominent landmarks – the external auditory meatus (ear canal), the posterior border of the mandible (lower jawbone), and the mastoid process (a bony prominence located behind the ear). This triangular area is named for its proximity to the ear (auricle), hence the term "auricular" triangle.
The auricular triangle is an important landmark for clinicians, particularly in the fields of otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, as it serves as a useful guide to identify several structures in this region. The triangle encompasses the parotid gland, a large salivary gland responsible for producing saliva, as well as its associated ducts and blood vessels. Identification of the auricular triangle is crucial during procedures involving the parotid gland, such as parotidectomy (removal of part or all of the gland) or parotid duct stone removal.
Furthermore, the auricular triangle is also useful in locating and accessing the facial nerve branches that innervate the muscles of facial expression. The facial nerve passes through this region, making the auricular triangle an important reference point during surgical interventions involving facial nerve dissection or repair.
In summary, the auricular triangle is a triangular area on the lateral aspect of the head, formed by the external auditory meatus, posterior border of the mandible, and mastoid process. It serves as an anatomical reference point for the identification of structures such as the parotid gland and facial nerve branches.
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A t. formed by the base of the auricle and by lines drawn from the true tip of the auricle to the extremities of the base.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for AURICULAR TRIANGLE
- auricular trianglm
- auricular triangla
- auricular trianglg
- a uricular triangle
- au ricular triangle
- aur icular triangle
- auri cular triangle
- auric ular triangle
- auricu lar triangle
- auricul ar triangle
- auricula r triangle
- auricular t riangle
- auricular tr iangle
- auricular tri angle
- auricular tria ngle
- auricular trian gle
- auricular triang le
- auricular triangl e
Etymology of AURICULAR TRIANGLE
The etymology of the word "auricular triangle" can be understood by breaking down the individual components:
1. Auricular: The word "auricular" is derived from the Latin word "auricula", which means "ear". It can also be associated with the Latin word "auris", meaning "ear". In the context of "auricular triangle", it refers to the area near or related to the ear.
2. Triangle: The word "triangle" originated from the Latin word "triangulum", which combines "tri-" (meaning "three") and "angulum" (meaning "angle"). It represents a geometric shape having three sides and three angles. In this context, "auricular triangle" refers to the triangular shape formed in the vicinity or related to the ear.
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