Galea aponeurotica
Last edit by Alaric Steinmetz on
Synonyms: Aponeurosis epicranialis
The galea aponeurotica is a tough tendinous cap or plate on the cranial vault.
Anatomy
The galea aponeurotica is firmly connected to the scalp. This occurs through connective tissue fibers running perpendicular to the dermis. As a result, the galea aponeurotica, skin, and subcutaneous tissue form a unit known as the scalp proper.
Function
The special anatomy of the galea aponeurotica gives the scalp a certain degree of flexibility with regard to movements anteriorly, occipitally, and laterally[^1].
Figure
Clinical relevance
The galea aponeurotica can be used as a vascularized pedicled flap for reconstruction of defects at the anterior cranial base[^2].
