Human Anatomy - Kotsan I. Ya. 2009

Skeleton of the Head

The Skeleton of the HEAD, the Skull (cranium), serves as a container for the Brain and Sense Organs, protecting them from damage, and also provides a solid support for the initial sections of the digestive and respiratory systems. The human skull consists of 23 bones (8 paired and 7 unpaired) (Figs. 28, 29). It is conventionally divided into two parts: the neurocranium and the viscerocranium (facial skull). Due to The Development of the brain, the human neurocranium is larger in volume than the viscerocranium, whereas in all other Representatives of the animal kingdom, the facial skull is larger than the braincase. Some of the skull bones contain air-filled cavities that communicate with the Nasal cavity. Bone pneumatization reduces the mass of the skull while maintaining its strength. A special place is occupied by the Hyoid bone, which is located in the anterior region of the neck and connects to the skull bones solely via Ligaments and Muscles.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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