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Mandibular neuralgia due to anatomical variations
J Krmpotić-Nemanić1, I Vinter, J Hat
1Anatomy Department Drago Perović, Medical Faculty Zagreb, Croatia.
Summary
An extremely large lateral lamina of the pterygoid process can lead to trigeminal neuralgia. This anatomical variation may cause compression of the mandibular nerve, resulting in pain during chewing.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Neuroscience
- Orthodontics
Background:
- The infratemporal fossa's medial wall is formed by the lateral lamina of the pterygoid process and the medial pterygoid muscle.
- Variations in the pterygoid process anatomy can impact surrounding neurovascular structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anatomical variations of the pterygoid process lateral lamina.
- To determine the potential clinical implications of an enlarged lateral lamina on the mandibular nerve.
Main Methods:
- Examination of a large collection of macerated human adult and disarticulated young skulls.
- Identification and measurement of pterygoid process lateral lamina dimensions.
- Analysis of the relationship between the lateral lamina, pterygoid muscles, and the course of the third trigeminal nerve branches.
Main Results:
- Observed cases with an extremely large lateral lamina of the pterygoid process.
- In specimens with large lateral laminae, the medial wall of the infratemporal fossa was predominantly osseous.
- Enlarged lateral laminae necessitated nerve pathway deviation, increasing the risk of mandibular nerve compression and potential trigeminal neuralgia.
Conclusions:
- Anatomical variations in the pterygoid process, specifically an enlarged lateral lamina, can lead to compression of the mandibular nerve.
- This compression may manifest as pain during mastication and potentially contribute to the development of trigeminal neuralgia.
- Clinical awareness of these anatomical variations is crucial for diagnosing and managing related neuropathic pain.