Diagnosing disk dysfunction and tissue changes in the temporomandibular joint with magnetic resonance imaging
Article Abstract:
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint between the lower jaw and the temporal bone of the head. Its two cavities are separated by a disk made of fibrous tissue, which can become dislocated or displaced. Evaluation of the health of the disk is difficult, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which allows an excellent view of structures inside the body as well as analysis of their tissue components, may be helpful. To determine its usefulness in evaluating TMJ abnormalities, 42 patients with TMJ derangement who had not responded to conservative treatment underwent MRI prior to surgery. A discussion is provided of the mechanisms by which MRI functions. With this instrument, much information about the disk can be gathered, including tissue changes, fibrotic changes, disk displacement, and other aspects of disk health. Hard and soft tissues can easily be distinguished. Displaced disks emit a more intense signal and they can be examined to determine exact details of the displacement. Arthrography, X-ray of a joint, is a technique suited to evaluating dynamic states, while MRI allows evaluation with superior attention to detail. Proceeding through the disk in 3 mm intervals, it is possible to note small irregularities, contour change, or thickened or hyperplastic (increased cell numbers) regions. Arthrography cannot detect changes of this type and it must be performed by a skilled individual. In addition, it adds to the radiation dose received by the patient. MRI is expensive, however, and available only at large facilities. Overall, MRI shows great promise for obtaining information about disk health. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1989
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Magnetic resonance imaging predictors of temporomandibular joint pain
Article Abstract:
MRI scans should not be used to diagnose temporomandibular joint (TMJ)disease or to determine what treatment may be effective. A study of 118 people with TMJ pain and 46 people with no TMJ pain found that both groups had MRI evidence of disk displacement, osteoarthritis, and effusion.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 2003
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Diagnosing TMJ internal derangement and osteoarthritis with magnetic resonance imaging
Article Abstract:
MRI scans should be done to detect temporomandibular joint (TMJ) damage or osteoarthritis in patients who have TMJ pain. The existence of pain alone is not sufficient to diagnose TMJ damage, according to a study of 131 patients.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 2001
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