Significance of arthrography and computed tomography in the assessment of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint.

Arthrography was performed on 56 joints of 47 patients presenting with symptoms of pain and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint. The diagnosis could be confirmed in 53 joints. In addition, there was evidence of 13 perforations and 7 joints with adhesions. In 51 of the affected joints, computed tomography (CT) was also performed to compare both methods. The same CT procedure was performed on 12 joints of patients without any joint problem. Almost consistently (88%), an arthrographically anteriorly dislocated disc was detectable in the axial CT scans. 92% of the healthy joints showed normal soft tissue structures. For CT visualization of a displaced disc sagittal reformations or primary sagittal scans are not necessary. Confirmation of possible perforations or adhesions cannot be made by CT. Comparing the advantages and disadvantages, arthrography must still be regarded as superior to CT. In some cases, however, CT is a valuable tool in assessing an internal derangement.