OBJECTIVETo find out the characteristic topographic distribution of the muscle spindles in human masseter and temporal muscle, and to clarify the neurobiology roles of masticatory muscles during chew and adjusting mandibular position.

METHODSThe muscle spindles of masseter and temporal muscle on both sides of 5 human corpses fixed in formalin for more than 1 year were observed and quantitatively analyzed by picture analysis equipment.

RESULTSThe muscle spindles were maldistributed and spindles were commonly clustered in some individual portions, and the muscle spindle figures were diversiform, which were predominantly composed of the spindle simple and spindle complexes. The masseter spindles of the deep portion were obviously more than that of the superficial. Spindles of temporal muscle were concentrated in the anterior approach to the coracoid.

CONCLUSIONThe distribution of muscle spindles in the masseter and temporal muscle is heterogeneous, spindle density in the deep portion of masseter and the anterior of temporolis muscle is greater than others. The deep of masseter and the anterior of temporal muscle play an important part in maintaining mandibular position and balance.