Anat Cell Biol.  2024 Mar;57(1):7-12. 10.5115/acb.23.232.

The pterygomandibular raphe: a comprehensive review

• Vutukuri R
• Kitagawa N
• Fukino K
• Tubbs RS
• Iwanaga J

• KMID: 2554235
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5115/acb.23.232

Abstract

The pterygomandibular raphe (PMR) is a tendinous structure connecting the bucinator and the superior pharyngeal constrictor muscles. With its implications in the spread of oral cancer, the proper treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, and dental procedures, it is important to obtain a thorough understanding of the PMR. We reviewed the existing literature to compile the published information regarding its anatomy, embryology, imaging, variations, functions, pathologies, and clinical relevance of the pterygomandibular raphe.

Keyword

Anatomy; Tendons; Embryology; Anatomic variation; Oral

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Pterygomandibular fold (arrowheads) right behind the mandibular last molar.

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  Fig. 2 The absence of the pterygomandibular raphe (arrows). SPC, superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle.

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  Fig. 3 Axial section of the right bucinator and SPC shown with yellow dotted lines. There is no clear border between two muscles. MPM, medial pterygoid muscle; PMS, pterygomandibular space; PPS, parapharyngeal space; SPC, superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle.

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  Fig. 4 Inferior alveolar nerve block in the pterygomandibular space (the level of the mandibular foramen).

Reference

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