Macroscopic Analysis of the Insertion Points of the Lateral Pterygoid Muscle in Adult Individuals

The lateral pterygoid muscle (LPM) is intimately related with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), playing an important role in its physiology. This makes it of interest to researchers who investigate disorders. literature indicates that anatomical variations exist insertion superior fascicle LPM. Imaging and cadaver studies have revealed LPM may present accessory fascicle. study object was carry out macroscopic analysis LPM, examining origin inferior fascicles. used 38 half-heads adult individuals fixed formaldehyde 10 %. To initial incision made along lower margin zygomatic arch; masseter then dissected, separating on face mandibular ramus retracting posteroinferior. Two incisions were arch temporal coronoid process identified dissection pincers; dissected gain access infratemporal fossa two fascicles (SF) originated greater wing sphenoid, third lamina sphenoid 26 samples. In 12 samples, crest sphenoid. Type I found 20 II 6 samples III all analysed, (IF) thirds pyramidal palatine, fovea. (AF) AF 2 cases 4 cases; capsular disc complex cases. results obtained our contribute data Brazilian individuals, evaluation points.