Geniohyoid

The geniohyoid (Latin: musculus geniohyoideus) is a paired short and slender neck muscle located above the hyoid bone. Therefore, the geniohyoid is classified as the suprahyoid muscle. It stretches between the mandible and hyoid bone. Together with the mylohyoid muscle, the geniohyoid forms the floor of the mouth.

Origin

The geniohyoid muscle originates from the inferior mental spine (genial tubercle) of the mandible.

Insertion

The geniohyoid inserts on the superior border of the body of the hyoid bone.

Action

The geniohyoid muscle depresses the mandible, elevates the hyoid bone and draws it forward. Also, it widens the pharynx.

Innervation

The geniohyoid is innervated by the anterior ramus of the spinal nerve C1 via the hypoglossal nerve (CN XII).

Blood supply

The geniohyoid muscle receives arterial blood supply from the sublingual artery, which is a branch of the lingual artery.