Question
Which muscle is responsible for causing trismus due to spasm?
| A. |
Buccinator
|
| B. |
Lateral pterygoid
|
| C. |
Medial pterygoid
|
| D. |
Mentalis
|
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer � C
Explanation
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|
Trismus, commonly known as “lockjaw,” is a condition characterized by the reduced opening of the jaws due to muscle spasm. The muscle most commonly responsible for causing trismus due to spasm is the medial pterygoid.
This muscle is one of the muscles of mastication, and its spasm can restrict the movement of the mandible, leading to difficulty in opening the mouth.
Spasm or hypertonicity of the medial pterygoid muscle can result in trismus, making it the correct option for this question
Buccinator muscle is responsible for the movement of the cheeks and plays a role in actions like blowing, sucking, and chewing. However, it is not directly involved in causing trismus, which refers to difficulty in opening the mouth fully.
