The styloid process is a slender and pointed bony process of the temporal bone projecting anteroinferiorly from the inferior surface of the
temporal bone just below the ear. Its length normally ranges from just under 3 cm to just over 4 cm. It is usually nearly straight, but may be curved in some individuals. Its
proximal (
tympanohyal)
part is ensheathed by the
tympanic part of the temporal bone (vaginal process), whereas its
distal (stylohyal) part gives attachment to several structures.
Attachments The styloid process gives attachments to several muscles, and ligaments. It serves as an anchor point for several muscles associated with the
tongue and
larynx. •
stylohyoid ligament •
stylomandibular ligament •
styloglossus muscle (innervated by the
hypoglossal nerve) •
stylohyoid muscle (innervated by the
facial nerve) •
stylopharyngeus muscle (innervated by the
glossopharyngeal nerve)
Relations The parotid gland is situated laterally to the styloid process, the external carotid artery passes by its apex, the facial nerve crosses its base, and the attachment of the stylopharyngeus muscle separates it from the internal jugular vein medially. ==Development==