Which of the following are considered accessory ligaments of the TMJ?

• A. Posterior talofibular ligament and knee capsule
• B. Sphenomandibular and stylomandibular ligaments
• C. Collateral ligaments of the knee
• D. Transverse carpal ligaments

Answer: (B)

Accessory ligaments of the TMJ are extrascapular bands that reinforce the joint and limit jaw movement. The two that fit are the sphenomandibular ligament, which runs from the spine of the sphenoid to the lingula of the mandible, and the stylomandibular ligament, which extends from the styloid process to the angle of the mandible. Their role is to provide passive support and help restrict excessive opening or forward movement, rather than forming part of the joint capsule itself. The other options describe ligaments of other joints (ankle, knee, wrist) and aren’t involved with the TMJ, so they don’t count as TMJ accessory ligaments.