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The cranial attachment of the sphenomandibular (tympanomandibular)ligament

1966; Wiley; Volume: 156; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1002/ar.1091560407

1097-0185

James G. Burch,

Head and Neck Anomalies

Abstract The sphenomandibular (tympanomandibular) ligament develops from Meckel's cartilage between the future petrotympanic fissure and the mandibular lingula. The superior attachment of this ligament has been described to attach to the sphenoidal spine. Fifty‐one cadaver half heads were dissected to study the superior attachment of this ligament. Forty‐five of the 51 ligaments were found to be attached in the area of the petrotympanic fissure, not directly to the sphenoidal spine. Six of the specimens had a thin fibrous slip which fanned out medially to the sphenoidal spine. Twelve additional cadaver specimens were decalcified and cut in various planes through the temporomandibular joint. All specimens showed a fibrous continuation of the ligament through the petrotympanic and/or squamotympanic fissures with an attachment to the malleus in the middle ear. When tension was applied to the ligament the malleus was seen to move. A 115 mm human fetus head was dissected. A ligamentous structure was seen to run from the medial side of the mandibular ramus to the future squamotympanic fissure area. When observed microscopically the ligament was continuous through the fissure and attached to the malleus.