The Digastric Muscle: Its Anatomy and Functions Revisited

As one of the suprahyoid muscles, the digastric muscle is characterized by two separate bellies of different embryologic origins. The origin of the anterior belly is the digastric fossa, while the origin of the posterior belly is the mastoid notch. They share a common insertion: the intermediate tendon. When the digastric muscle contracts, the hyoid bone is raised. Opening of the jaw and swallowing of food boli are associated with digastric muscle activity. This review discusses the general anatomic features of the digastric muscle and its variation, primary functions, and clinical implications focused on surgical reconstruction and rejuvenation.