Anatomy of the equine temporomandibular joint: study by gross dissection, vascular injection and section.
BACKGROUND
The minute anatomy of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in horses is poorly documented in the literature.


OBJECTIVE
To examine in detail the anatomy of the normal equine TMJ and the relationship of the joint to adjacent structures.


METHODS
The anatomy of the TMJ was examined in 12 equidae using dissections, synovial and vascular injections and frozen and plastinated sections. Relevant structures were photographed.


RESULTS
Rostral and caudal compartments were identified in the dorsal and ventral synovial pouches of the TMJ. Lateral and caudal ligaments were identified and attachments of the masticatory muscles over the TMJ were documented. Direct relationships between the TMJ and components of the ear were found, and the vascular supply described.


CONCLUSIONS
This joint is related to some components of the ear as in man, and has its own peripheral vascular supply.


CONCLUSIONS
A knowledge of the detailed anatomy of the equine TMJ is a prerequisite to interpreting the imaging techniques, and will enable improved diagnosis of TMJ pathologies.
Departments of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Murcia University, Espinardo Campus, 30071 Murcia, Spain.
M J
MJ
Rodríguez
A
A
Agut
F
F
Gil
R
R
Latorre
D000818:Animals; D006736:Horses / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology; D008409:Mastication / Q000502:physiology*; D008410:Masticatory Muscles / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000098:blood supply / Q000502:physiology