Parts of skull (neurocranium and viscerocranium)

The human skull is composed of two distinct parts known as the neurocranium and viscerocranium

 

Neurocranium

The neurocranium consists of bones that surround and encase the brain and sensory organs connected to the brain. Therefore, the neurocranium is also known as the braincase

The space found within the neurocranium is known as the cranial cavity, and the brain and meninges mostly occupy it. Overall, the neurocranium is formed by eight bones.

The neurocranium can be further subdivided into two portions:

The primary function of the neurocranium is to give form and shape to the head and to protect the brain and structures found within the cranial cavity. The neurocranium forms the skeletal framework for the cranial and orbital cavities, as well as provides attachment sites for numerous muscles and ligaments.

 

Viscerocranium

The viscerocranium is the part that is situated anterior to the neurocranium, and it is also known as the splanchnocranium. Overall, the viscerocranium is a collection of bones that defines the facial skeleton and supports the soft tissue of the face. It is formed by fourteen bones, excluding the hyoid bone.

The viscerocranium not only supports the soft tissue of the face and gives it its characteristic shape but also provides a skeletal framework for the nasal, oral and orbital cavities, as well as contributes to the upper and lower jaws. Additionally, it provides attachment sites for numerous muscles. Moreover, the maxillae and mandible accommodate the teeth