[Evaluation of a model of temporomandibular disorders established by transzygomatic arch traction of the mandibular ramus in rabbits].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate a model of temporomandibular disorders established by transzygomatic arch traction of the mandibular ramus in rabbits.


METHODS
Fifteen adult New Zealand rabbits were subjected to traction in the postero-superior direction unilaterally using elastic force and six rabbits used as the control. Histopathologic change of the disc, joint space and cartilage was observed through Hematoxylin and Eosin staining.


RESULTS
Anterior disc displacement or disc deformity in four experimental rabbits was observed on the traction side 2 weeks after operation. At 4 weeks, fibrous adhesions in joint compartment were found in five experimental rabbits. The condyles or articular eminences of some experimental rabbits showed irregularities on the cartilage surface. In the 6 th week, bad disc deformity in four rabbits and severe fibrous adhesions in five rabbits was observed on the traction side, and subchondralbone and calcified cartilage became irregular. In control group, All articular structures were normal.


CONCLUSIONS
A animal model of temporomandibular disorders can be established by transzygomatic arch traction of the mandible.
Liu
Lai-kui
LK
Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology, College of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical Science University, Nanjing 210029, China.
Hong
Yu-juan
YJ
Tao
De-tao
DT
Li
Xiao-qing
XQ
Yi
Xin-zhu
XZ
D000818:Animals; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D008334:Mandible / Q000473:pathology*; D011817:Rabbits; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders; D014143:Traction; D015050:Zygoma