cranial temporal line

The cranial temporal line is a ridge on the external surface of the skull that marks the attachment of the temporal fascia and the superior border of the temporal muscle.

It extends on the lateral surface of the skull from the frontal bone posteriorly along the parietal and temporal bones, forming the superior boundary of the temporal fossa.

It serves as an attachment site for the temporal fascia and as the superior limit of the temporalis muscle, helping to define the extent of temporal muscle attachment.

The line is continuous with the supramastoid crest posteriorly and connects with the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone.

It is significant in temporal muscle surgery, temporal artery procedures, and serves as a landmark for facelift incisions and identification of the superficial temporal vessels.