Diagnostic accuracy of double-contrast arthrotomography of the temporomandibular joint: correlation with postmortem morphology.
The diagnostic accuracy of double-contrast arthrotomography in the evaluation of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint is unknown. Therefore, findings from double-contrast arthrotomograms of 48 temporomandibular joint autopsy specimens were correlated with postmortem morphology seen from dissections or cryosections. Arthrotomographic diagnosis was confirmed in 41 joints, signifying a diagnostic accuracy of 85%. Misinterpretations were made in seven joints (three concerning the configuration, three concerning the position, and one concerning the configuration and position of the disk). False-positive reports due to observation errors can be avoided with improved knowledge of the joint anatomy as well as with increased experience in the technique. False-negative examinations were due to limitation of the tomographic reproduction of the lateral part of the joint.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002102:Cadaver; D003080:Cold Temperature; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D014054:Tomography