The lateral temporomandibular ligament (temporomandibular ligament) is the primary reinforcing ligament of the TMJ lateral capsule, with oblique fibres running posteroinferiorly from the articular tubercle to the condylar neck, and horizontal fibres limiting posterior condylar displacement.
The oblique fibres limit the inferior displacement of the condyle during opening, acting as the principal passive restraint on jaw opening distance. The horizontal fibres prevent posterior condylar displacement during retrusion.
The lateral TMJ ligament is the first structure injured in TMJ trauma or overstretching (as during difficult intubation or prolonged dental procedures). Its laxity contributes to condylar hypermobility and subluxation. Eminectomy reduces the articular eminence height to prevent ligament recurrent strain in habitual subluxation.
Recurrent ligament overstretching from condylar subluxation over the articular eminence producing lateral TMJ pain and tenderness, managed by eminectomy or injection in refractory cases.
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