The galea aponeurotica is a dense tendinous hood or plate over the calvaria.
Anatomy
The galea aponeurotica is firmly attached to the scalp. This is achieved by connective tissue fibers extending perpendicular to the dermis. As a result, the galea aponeurotica, skin, and subcutaneous tissue form a unit known as the scalp.
Function
The distinctive anatomy of the galea aponeurotica allows the scalp a certain degree of flexibility with respect to movement in the frontal, occipital, and lateral directions[^1].
Figure
EnlargeAnatomical drawing of the galea aponeurotica (colored purple). Figure adapted from Gray's Anatomy, Figure 378.EnlargeIllustration of the anatomical layers of the neurocranium. Figure adapted from Price, John C., et al. The pericranial flap for reconstruction of anterior skull base defects. The Laryngoscope 98.11 (1988): 1159-1164.
Clinical relevance
The galea aponeurotica can be used as a vascularized pedicled flap for reconstruction of defects of the anterior skull base[^2].
EnlargeUse of a galeal flap to cover a defect of the anterior skull base. Figure adapted from Price, John C., et al. The pericranial flap for reconstruction of anterior skull base defects. The Laryngoscope 98.11 (1988): 1159-1164.
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