Articular capsule of temporomandibular joint

The articular capsule of the temporomandibular joint is a fibrous connective tissue structure that surrounds and encloses the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), forming a sleeve-like boundary that maintains the integrity of the joint space. It attaches superiorly to the margins of the articular eminence and the glenoid (articular) fossa of the temporal bone, and inferiorly to the neck of the mandibular condyle. The capsule is reinforced laterally by the lateral temporomandibular ligament and is intimately associated with the intra-articular disc, particularly at its posterior attachment, known as the bilaminar zone, which is vascular and ligamentous in nature.