Mastoid

Mastoid process

The mastoid process is located posterior and inferior to the ear canal, lateral to the styloid process, and appears as a conical or pyramidal projection. It forms a bony prominence behind and below the ear. It has variable size and form (e.g. it is larger in the male than in the female). It is also filled with sinuses, or mastoid cells. The mastoid process serves for the attachment of the sternocleidomastoid, the posterior belly of the digastric muscle, splenius capitis, and longissimus capitis. On the medial side of the process is a deep groove, the mastoid notch, for the attachment of the digastric muscle; medial to this is a shallow furrow, the occipital groove, which lodges the occipital artery. The facial nerve passes close to the mastoid process.