The stylomandibular ligament is a thickening of the deep cervical fascia between the styloid process and the mandibular angle, forming the posterior boundary of the parotid space and the anterior boundary of the retromandibular space. It limits excessive mandibular protrusion and separates the parotid gland from the submandibular gland. Eagle syndrome from styloid process elongation puts the stylomandibular ligament under tension, contributing to throat pain.
| Origin | Styloid process of the temporal bone |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Posterior border of the mandibular ramus and angle |
| Actions | Limits excessive mandibular protrusion; separates the parotid from the submandibular gland |
|---|
The stylomandibular ligament is the key landmark distinguishing the parotid space (lateral and anterior to the ligament) from the deep parotid and parapharyngeal space (medial to the ligament). Deep lobe parotid tumours that extend medially to the stylomandibular ligament into the parapharyngeal space produce the classic dumbbell parotid tumour requiring extended surgical resection.
Stylomandibular ligament tension from elongated styloid process contributing to throat pain and restricted mandibular movement.
