[The dynamic complex of the temporomandibular meniscus]

The existence of meniscocapsular insertions of the temporal, masseter and external pterygoid muscles complicates the scheme of capsulo-meniscal dynamics. Our findings do indeed agree with those of DUBECQ (Bordeaux); but we think that the insertions of the masseter and the temporal are not only fine tracts. In the embryon, the meniscus is the preglossal mekelian conjunctival blastema, which receives the 3 masticatory muscles on its anterior border. In the adult, menisco-capsulo-muscular relationships are not modified; inspite of considerable functional adaptation of the articulation to varied stimuli, the menisco-capsular apparatus seems to be triply controlled by 3 musculo-masticatory bands, owing to the anterior premeniscal tendinous lamina, in histological continuity with the meniscus and rich in corpuscles of deep sensitivity. The resultant of the tridirectional muscular traction of the masseter, external pterygoid and temporal is a force in the postero-anterior oblique direction, downwards and forwards, which allows the meniscus to stretch, as was shown by Pr Delaire, and thus to have a sub-temporal sliding pathway of 8 to 12 mm. The three muscle bundles external pterygoid, temporal and masseter constitute the dynamic complex of the meniscus.