Three-dimensional visualization of the temporomandibular joint: a computerized multisectional autopsy study of disc position and configuration.
To demonstrate disc position and disc configuration of the temporomandibular joint, three-dimensional multisectional computer reconstructions were made of 20 autopsy specimens (11 female, 9 male; mean age, 40.4 years). The presence of a distinct occlusion was the only criterion for selection. Normal disc position was found in 13 joints, partial anterior disc position was found in 5 joints, and complete anterior disc position was seen in 2 joints. Fifteen joints had biconcave disc configuration and 5 joints had deformed discs. Considering the high incidence of disc position deviating from the normal superior position, it is suggested that in some cases a so-called abnormal disc position can be regarded as within the limits of anatomic and physiological variability.
Dijkgraaf
L C
LC
Orofacial Research Group, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
de Bont
L G
LG
Otten
E
E
Boering
G
G
D000328:Adult; D002102:Cadaver; D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011857:Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D012016:Reference Values; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*