Histological study on temporomandibular joint disc and its attachment / 实用口腔医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To investigate the characteristics and their functional significance of TMJ disc and its attachment. Methods: Each of the 23 TMJs from 12 cadavers were divided into quadrants sagitall y, and total 92 histological slices were obtained and stained with HE.The morpho logical characteristics of the samples was observed microscopically. Results: ①Both temporal posterior and anterior mandibualr attachment s were loose while mandibular posterior and anterior temporal attachments were d ense in which the fibers run anterior posteriorly. ②Fibers in the intermediate zone ran predominantly in anterior posterior direction while those in both ant erior and posterior bands were mixed with transverse fibers. ③At the posterior portion of disc there were 33 out of 92 slices from 6/12 cadavers (11/23 TMJs) s howed the structure of "the fourth band" which was featured by dense fibers alik e those of inner disc. There were 36 out of 92 slices from 6/12 cadavers (10/23 TMJs) showed the structure of "turned fibers" which was featured by a sudden tu rning of fibers from the thick posterior band back and downward, providing an angle like sign. Conclusions: There is great difference o f fiber direction in various parts of disc and its attachments, reflecting the functional demands.