Temporomandibular joint: capsule (Latin)

Magnification of art. temporomandibularis with the capsula articularis opened. In this sagittal view, details of the anatomy of the joint are illustrated. The cavitas articularis is divided into two cavities (superior and inferior) by a discus articularis. In the sagittal section, the disc has a thin zona intermedia which is bounded by thickenings known as the fasciculi anterior et posterior. The disc stabilizes the condylus mandibulae within the joint, reduces frictional forces between the articular surfaces and may aid lubrication of the joint.