TITLE:
Three-Dimensional Architecture of the Mouse Tongue Muscles Using Micro-CT with a Focus on the Transverse, Vertical, and Genioglossus Muscles
AUTHORS:
Hidekazu Aoyagi, Shin-ichi Iwasaki, Tomoichirou Asami
KEYWORDS:
Tongue Muscles, Micro-CT, Three-Dimensional Architecture, Transverse Muscle, Vertical Muscle, Genioglossus Muscle
JOURNAL NAME:
Surgical Science,
Vol.6 No.8,
July
31,
2015
ABSTRACT: Background: The suitability
of micro-computed tomography (CT) for soft tissue applications has been well documented.
Although the application of micro-CT to the three dimensional (3D) structure of
the tongue muscle has been reported, a 3D rendering and/or a schematic view of
the tongue muscle has yet to be published. Material and Method: First, muse
tongues were fixed and decalcified, and then the vertical muscle (Ve), the
transverse muscle (Tr), and/or the genioglossus muscle of the mouse tongue (Ge)
were analyzed using micro-CT and are shown in this report in rendered images
and pattern diagrams. Results: 1) The Tr is classified into three parts: the
first part extends from the middle to the
apical part of the tongue; the second part is strongly connected to the superior
longitudinal muscles of the tongue (Lo); the third part fans out from the
middle to the root of the tongue. 2) The Ve is classified into two main groups:
the first group joins the dorsal and the lateral parts of the tongue; the
second group joins the dorsal part and the floor of the tongue. 3) Ge is
classified into four parts: three parts comprise the Ge apical and middle parts
of the tongue, with one part in the inferior longitudinal muscles of the
tongue, one joining the lingual septum of the tongue (LS), and the other
joining the sub-surface of the dorsal part of the Lo. The remaining Ge exits in
a fan-like manner through the root of the tongue and then joins the Tr.