The deep head is the larger medial pterygoid component, arising from the medial pterygoid plate. It runs anteroinferiorly to the mandibular ramus, forming the medial component of the pterygomandibular sling.
| Origin | Medial surface of the lateral pterygoid plate of the sphenoid |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Medial surface of the mandibular ramus and angle — same insertion as superficial head |
| Nerve Supply | Medial pterygoid nerve (V3) |
| Blood Supply | Pterygoid branches of maxillary artery |
| Actions | Elevates the mandible; Assists protrusion and contralateral lateral jaw movement |
|---|
Deep head medial pterygoid contracture in the pterygomandibular space contributes to severe trismus. Access to the infratemporal fossa for tumour resection requires identification of the medial pterygoid deep head as the medial boundary of this space.
Not palpable externally. Accessed via the pterygomandibular raphe intra-orally.
Bilateral medial pterygoid fibrosis in submucous fibrosis producing progressive trismus, managed by muscle-releasing surgery and physiotherapy.
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