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

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.