Pterygospinous ligament

Pterygospinous ligament is a small fibrous band of tissue located in the human skull. It extends from the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone to the spine of the sphenoid bone. The ligament is not always present in all individuals and its presence can sometimes lead to the Pterygospinous bar.

Etymology

The term "Pterygospinous" is derived from the Greek words "pteryx" meaning wing and "spinos" meaning spine. This is in reference to the ligament's location extending from the wing-like pterygoid process to the spine of the sphenoid bone.

Anatomy

The Pterygospinous ligament is a small fibrous band that extends from the lateral pterygoid plate of the sphenoid bone to the spine of the same bone. It is not always present in all individuals. When it is present, it can sometimes ossify and form a bony bridge known as the Pterygospinous bar. This bar can sometimes cause compression of the mandibular nerve, leading to pain and discomfort.

Clinical significance

The presence of the Pterygospinous ligament and the potential formation of the Pterygospinous bar can have clinical significance. The bar can sometimes compress the mandibular nerve, leading to symptoms such as pain and discomfort. This condition is known as Pterygospinous bar syndrome. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the bar.

Related terms

• Pterygoid process: A process of the sphenoid bone to which the Pterygospinous ligament attaches.
• Sphenoid bone: A bone of the skull to which the Pterygospinous ligament attaches.
• Pterygospinous bar: A potential formation caused by the ossification of the Pterygospinous ligament.
• Pterygospinous bar syndrome: A condition caused by the compression of the mandibular nerve by the Pterygospinous bar.

Pterygospinous ligament Resources
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