Dynamic MR imaging of the temporomandibular joint and the related structures using 0.5 T unit: The normal study

Abstract

Gradient-field-echo technique was employed to evaluate the movement of the temporomandibular joint meniscus and the related structures combined with the opening of the mouth for asymptomatic TM joints in the use of a 0.5 T super-conductive MR system. The examination for the mouth opening phase took less than one minute. The movement of the meniscus was clearly presented especially by using a cine-mode display. The signal intensity in the retro-meniscus and the lateral pterygoid muscle was increased by the opening. These findings indicate that the MR dynamic imaging may be promising in diagnosing not only the shape of the meniscus but also the function of the TM joint.