Neck of mandible
Collum mandibulae
Definition
The neck of mandible is a slender supporting beam which lies beneath the mandibular condyle. This neck, along with the mandibular condyle, forms the entirety of the condylar process on the mandible.
The neck has distinct anatomical features. It’s posterior surface is convex, whereas the front surface features a groove called the pterygoid fovea. This groove serves as the attachment point for the inferior segment of the lateral pterygoid muscle, which plays a crucial role in the movement of the jaw.
The fibrous capsule of the temporomandibular joint envelops the mandibular condyle fully and attaches around the neck of the condylar process, securing everything in place.
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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2024 IMAIOS.
Drake, R.L., Vogl, A.W. and Mitchell, A.W.M. (2009). ‘Chapter 8: Head and Neck’ in Gray’s anatomy for Students. (2nd ed.) Philadelphia PA 19103-2899: Elsevier, pp. 814 & 922.
Breeland G, Aktar A, Patel BC. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Mandible. [Updated 2023 Apr 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532292/
