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Helicis minor
Other Terms:
Musculus helicis minor,
Petit muscle de l'hélix
Muscle parts
None
Latin name
Musculus helicis minor
Latin muscle parts
None
Group
Branchial arch muscle – second arch (Auricular muscle)
Etymology
The English name for this muscle is the lesser muscle of the coil. Helicis comes from the Greek word helix meaning a “coil” and in this use designates the coil-like, rounded convex margin of the pinna (ear). The term minor comes from the Greek meion meaning “lesser.” As is typical in anatomical terminology, this comparative reference clues you into the fact that this is a smaller version of a similar shaped larger muscle.
Origin
Base of the helical crus of the external ear.
Insertion
Anterior aspect of the crus of the helix where it curves upward above the tragus.
Action
Assist in adjusting the shape of the anterior margin of the ear cartilage. While this is a potential action in some individuals, in the majority of individuals the muscle modifies auricular shape to a minimal degree.
Nerve supply
Facial nerve (Cranial nerve VII)
Blood supply
Auricular branches of the posterior auricular and occipital arteries.
Latin
Musculus helicis minor
French
Petit muscle de l'hélix
