Evaluation of the temporomandibular joint morphology and condylar position with cone-beam computerized tomography in patients with internal derangement

Oral Radiol. 2023 Jan;39(1):173-179. doi: 10.1007/s11282-022-00618-x. Epub 2022 May 23.

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between internal derangement and morphological features of the temporomandibular joint by comparing joint morphology between patients with ID and control patients.

Methods: The current study prospectively is evaluated the cone-beam computed images of 106 ID patients and 122 patients with asymptomatic joints; recorded angular and linear measurements. The relationships between these measurements and ID are investigated; the differences between the two groups using paired t tests.

Results: There were significant differences in the values of articular slope and the condyle height/glenoid fossa depth (CH/GFD) ratio between patients in the ID and control groups (p < 0.05). There was also a relationship between these parameters and the gender of patients with ID. The condylar position was posterior in the ID group.

Conclusion: Posteriorly and superiorly located condyles with an increased CH/GFD ratio, condyles located eccentrically, and a steeper posterior slope may be risk factors for ID.

Keywords: Cone-beam computed tomography; Internal derangement; Mandibular condyle; Temporomandibular disorder; Temporomandibular joint.

MeSH terms

  • Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / methods
  • Glenoid Cavity*
  • Humans
  • Mandibular Condyle / diagnostic imaging
  • Temporomandibular Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders* / diagnostic imaging