Controversies on anatomy and function of the ligaments associated with the temporomandibular joint: a literature survey.

Varying opinions are found in the literature regarding the role of the ligaments associated with the temporomandibular joint, eg, with respect to recording of mandibular positions and diagnosis and to treatment of patients with temporomandibular disorders. A literature survey was done to explore controversies of anatomy and function of the temporomandibular joint ligaments. Only 20 research-based anatomic/functional articles were registered in the Index Medicus system under the selected headings from 1897 to 1995. By examining the reference lists of the articles found, 22 more articles not included in Index Medicus were identified. Thus, the total number of original publications concerning the temporomandibular ligaments was limited. Although the conventional textbook descriptions of the anatomy of the ligaments are fairly consistent, there are several controversies and unanswered questions. Information about the functional role of the ligaments is especially insufficient. The results of this survey indicate that there is a need for additional anatomic and functional investigations of ligaments associated with the temporomandibular joint.