Arthroscopic anatomy of the anteromedial wall of the temporomandibular joint: Implications in articular disc displacement

Abstract

Numerous anatomical and imaging studies have established a close relation between disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the medial wall of the TMJ. These studies have revealed a direct association between disc displacement without reduction (DDWoR) and the occurrence of fatty degeneration within the superior fascicle of the lateral pterygoid muscle (SPLM). While the aetiology of this phenomenon remains unclear, it has been suggested that it stems from the interaction between this muscle fascicle and the bony surface of the medial wall of the joint.