Newly revealed anatomy of the bucinator muscle: An anatomical and histological study

Background

Current anatomical knowledge of the origin of the bucinator muscle (BM), i.e., long thin attachments on the maxilla and mandible and the pterygomandibular raphe (PMR), is not supported by anatomical dissection of this muscle. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the detailed morphology of the BM and associated structures and to discuss its function.

Methods

The anatomy of the BM and related structures was investigated in 15 cadaveric heads using a surgical microscope and histological analysis.

Results

The inferior fibers of the BM originated from a small retromolar area (internal oblique line), which shared a common tendon with the deep tendon of the temporalis. The superior fibers of the BM originated from the maxillary tuberosity. The middle fibers originated the pterygoid hamulus. No PMR was identified in any of the specimens, but the border between the BM and superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle (SC) was clear because the muscle fibers followed different directions. Some horizontal fibers were continuous between the BM and SC.

Conclusions

Our results suggest the need to revise established accounts of the origins of the bucinator (the maxillary tuberosity, conjoint tendon of the temporalis, and pterygoid hamulus without a pterygomandibular raphe. It also needs to be noted that some of its fibers merge directly with the SC.