Magnetic resonance imaging of temporomandibular joint disorders

Abstract

Objective The aim was to highlight the role of MRI in the evaluation of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Background MRI has become a mainstay in the evaluation of TMJ disorders given its ability of noninvasively depicting major regional anatomic structures and demonstrating the presence of joint effusion and bone marrow signal-intensity abnormalities. Consequently, MRI has become the gold standard in diagnosing articular disc displacement. Patients and methods In this study, we included 30 patients (60 joints) who were referred from dentist's and rheumatologist clinics. They had clinical manifestations of TMJ affection. They were subjected to clinical history and examination. The main tool for diagnostic assessment was the conventional MR study of the TMJ in both opened and closed mouth positions. Results This study suggests the use of MRI as a proper diagnostic modality for TMJ disorders owing to the excellent soft tissue contrast and multiplanar capabilities that enable enhanced demonstration of complex anatomy and superior assessment of the pathological conditions of the TMJ, especially internal derangement of the TMJ. Conclusion There were 28 normally positioned discs out of the examined 60 joints. There were 13 joints showing partial anterior disc displacement (ADD) with reduction. We found five joints showing partial ADD without reduction. We found 13 joints showing complete ADD without reduction. We found one joint showing osteoarthritis.