Pars opercularis

Pars opercularis

File:Pars opercularis.png

Pars opercularis of the brain, highlighted in red.

The Pars opercularis is a part of the inferior frontal gyrus in the human brain. It is situated at the posterior end of the frontal lobe, near the lateral sulcus (Sylvian fissure).

Anatomy

The Pars opercularis is bounded by two branches of the lateral sulcus. These branches form a shape that looks like an operculum (Latin for "little lid"). The Pars opercularis, along with the Pars triangularis and the Pars orbitalis, make up the Broca's area, which is associated with speech production.

Function

The Pars opercularis is involved in various cognitive functions, including language production, working memory, and cognitive control. It is also associated with the motor aspects of speech production and is thought to play a role in the planning of complex coordinated movements.

Clinical significance

Damage to the Pars opercularis can result in Broca's aphasia, a condition characterized by difficulties in speech production but not in comprehension. This area is also implicated in stuttering and other speech disorders.

See also

• Inferior frontal gyrus
• Broca's area
• Broca's aphasia