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Introduction and Objectives: Temporomandibular disorders are associated with symptoms such as tinnitus, vertigo, sensation of hearing loss, ear fullness and otalgia. The connection and dysfunction of the tensor tympani and tensor veli palatini muscles seems to be associated with the aforementioned symptoms. We seek to demonstrate and explain this connection through the morphometry of these structures., Methods: We studied 22 paired blocks and 1 left side of human temporal bone. Digital measurements were made of the tensor tympani muscles and stapes., Results: The average length of the stapedial muscle was 5.8 mm SD 0.61, and that of the tensor tympani was 19.69 mm SD 1.07. Anatomical connections were found in all the samples between the tensor veli palatini muscles through a common tendon., Conclusions: There is a need for an interdisciplinary management between physician and specialized dentist in cases of craniofacial pain., (2009 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.)

The cephalometric indexes of 16 patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) were compared with those of 12 controls in order to determine if fundamental anatomical changes were present in the patients and to identify a pattern of facial features that might be characteristic of individuals with OSAS. Our results point to micrognathia of the upper maxilla in OSAS patients (indicated by significantly lower indexes for convexity, Mx 1, and the angles SNA and ANB). We also found a longer soft palate and a functionally shallower pharynx. Together theses features reduce the permeability of the posterior pharyngeal air space. Additionally, we observed a dolichocephalic facial pattern in OSAS patients, along with a tendency to morbid anterior opening. We analyze the limitations of conventional cephalometry. While recognizing its usefulness in establishing baseline indexes before treatment and in postsurgical assessment, we nevertheless point out that it cannot be relied upon as the only test for evaluating surgical correction in OSAS patients.