Structure
The sphenomandibular ligament is an aponeurotic band derived from Meckel’s cartilage of the first pharyngeal arch of embryonic development.
Related parts of the anatomy
Anatomical Relations
The sphenomandibular ligament is usually separate from the temporomandibular joint capsule. It runs from the spine of the sphenoid bone to the lingula of the mandible. The inferior alveolar nerve is a close relation to the sphenomandibular ligament and descends between the ligament and the ramus of the mandible before entering the mandibular foramen.
Function
The sphenomandibular ligament limits distension of the mandible inferiorly.
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Temporomandibular Joint
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a bilateral synovial joint between the skull and the mandible comprising the glenoid fossa of the temporal bone, the condylar head of the mandible, and the articular cartilage and disc.
