Skull · Flat bone
Parietal Bone
The two parietal bones form most of the top and sides of the skull. Together they make up the dome that protects the upper part of the brain.
What it is
The parietal bones are two curved flat bones that meet in the midline at the top of the skull and join the neighbouring bones by immovable sutures.
Where it is
The upper sides and roof of the skull.
What it does
Form the main part of the cranial vault, protecting the top of the brain.
Connections
Joints and connections
- Sutures with the frontal, occipital, temporal and opposite parietal bones
When things go wrong
Common injuries and conditions
- Skull fracture involving the parietal bone (from head injury)
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms; it is not a diagnosis. A severe injury, a visibly deformed limb, or the inability to move or bear weight needs urgent assessment — call 999 or go to A&E for a serious injury.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
The point where the two parietal bones and the frontal bone meet is the site of a baby's front "soft spot" (fontanelle).
Answers
Parietal Bone: frequently asked questions
What is the parietal bone?
The parietal bones are the two flat bones forming most of the top and sides of the skull, protecting the upper brain.
Explore the skull
Related bones
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake, Vogl, Mitchell)
- TeachMeAnatomy — skeletal system
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