Major Helical Muscle, Anterior View

Description

Arising along the anterior margin of the auricle, the major helical muscle (musculus helicis major) traces a gentle arc parallel to the helix on the lateral surface of the pinna. From an anterior perspective, its fibers sit superficial to the auricular cartilage and lie just lateral to the scapha, following the outer rim from superior toward the mid-auricular region. Semi-transparency logically reveals the cartilaginous framework of the helix beneath the muscle, with adjacent auricular muscles and nearby facial expression musculature blending into the preauricular soft tissues. Orientation is clear. Anterior is forward. Recognition of the helicis major matters because auricular muscles are frequent points of confusion in head and neck teaching, and they become relevant when surgeons elevate skin flaps over the lateral auricle. During otoplasty and other auricular reconstructions, the skin–perichondrium plane over the helix is dissected close to where the helicis major can be encountered, and appreciating its relationship to the helix and scapha helps avoid unnecessary disruption and postoperative contour irregularities. The same regional anatomy informs placement of preauricular incisions and interpretation of superficial soft-tissue findings around the pinna on clinical exam. Use this illustration in gross anatomy or head and neck modules to distinguish intrinsic auricular muscles from the extrinsic auricular group and from nearby muscles of facial expression, and to teach how muscle fiber direction relates to the curved cartilaginous landmarks of the auricle. It also suits surgical atlases and patient education materials for otoplasty, auricular trauma repair, and reconstructive planning where precise helix-level anatomy needs a clean anterior reference. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.