Insertions of the lateral pterygoid muscle to the disc-capsule complex of the temporomandibular joint and condyle

Authors: CENK KILIÇ, GÜHAN DERGİN, FATİH YAZAR, BÜLENT KURT, TUNÇ KUTOĞLU, HASAN OZAN, HÜSEYİN AVNİ BALCIOĞLU

Abstract: To investigate the disc-capsule complex and condyle attachments of the lateral pterygoid muscle and its variations. Materials and methods: Forty-nine temporomandibular joint (TMJ) specimens were used, obtained from 26 human cadavers. The insertion point of each muscle head was determined. The widths and lengths of the heads were measured. Results: In 32 specimens, 2-headed muscles were present, while 3 heads were observed in 17 specimens. We defined 4 different types of attachments of muscle heads. In the most common type of attachment, the upper head inserted into the disc-capsule complex and condyle, and the lower head inserted into the condyle (36.7%). In the second type, the upper head inserted into the disc-capsule complex and the lower head inserted into the condyle. In the third type, both heads inserted into the condyle. In the fourth type, the upper head inserted into the disc-capsule complex and the lower head inserted into the complex and condyle. Conclusion: Detailed knowledge of the morphology of the lateral pterygoid muscle will provide great benefit in addressing temporomandibular joint problems. The results of the present study will be helpful for further clinical, radiological, and anatomical research.

Keywords: Temporomandibular joint, pterygoid muscles, temporomandibular joint disc, mandibular condyle

Full Text: PDF