Corpus: Tensor veli palatini muscle
1. Definition
The tensor veli palatini muscle is a broad, thin muscle that loops and functions to lift and tense the soft palate. It is part of the palatal musculature.
2. Course
The tensor veli palatini muscle is positioned laterally to the levator veli palatini muscle.
2.1. Origin
This muscle originates from the angular spine and scaphoid fossa of the sphenoid bone, as well as from the lateral wall of the tubal cartilage.
2.2. Insertion
The fibers of the tensor veli palatini muscle run steeply downward between the medial lamina of the pterygoid process and the medial pterygoid muscle. They terminate in a tendon that wraps around the pterygoid hamulus, where it is stabilized by fibers of the medial pterygoid muscle. A small bursa is located between the tendon and the hamulus to reduce friction. The muscle fibers from both sides finally insert into the palatal aponeurosis, using the Ostmann fat pad as a pulley (hypomochlion).
3. Innervation
The tensor veli palatini muscle is innervated by the nerve to the tensor veli palatini, a branch of the mandibular nerve (cranial nerve V3).
4. Function
The primary function of the tensor veli palatini muscle is to tense and stretch the soft palate, aiding in swallowing. Together with the levator veli palatini muscle, it also helps open the auditory tube, thereby equalizing pressure in the middle ear.