Bone
Frontal bone
Forehead, orbital roofs and anterior cranial floor
High-yield
The same bone separates the frontal lobes from the orbital contents. The supraorbital margins and the glabella between the brows are useful surface landmarks.
Overview
The frontal bone curves over the forehead and turns backward to form the orbital roofs. Its inner surface contributes to the anterior cranial fossa, while variable air-filled frontal sinuses occupy part of the bone above the nose.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- Flat cranial bone
- Key landmarks
- Squamous and orbital parts; glabella; supraorbital margins with notches or foramina; frontal sinuses
- Articulations
- Paired parietal bones at the coronal suture; sphenoid and ethmoid; paired nasal, lacrimal, maxillary and zygomatic bones
Clinical correlation
Frontal sinuses enlarge during childhood and vary greatly in size. Infection can occasionally spread through the posterior sinus wall toward intracranial tissues, producing serious complications.
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the frontal bone?
The frontal bone is a flat cranial bone bone.
What does the frontal bone articulate with?
Paired parietal bones at the coronal suture; sphenoid and ethmoid; paired nasal, lacrimal, maxillary and zygomatic bones.
What are the key landmarks of the frontal bone?
Squamous and orbital parts; glabella; supraorbital margins with notches or foramina; frontal sinuses.