Pseudodynamic MRI differs from natural opening of the temporomandibular joint.
OBJECTIVE
One step toward motion analysis of the temporomandibular joint is pseudodynamic magnetic resonance imaging (i.e., with stepwise mouth opening controlled by a Burnett device). This study intends to clarify whether and how pseudodynamic motion differs from natural motion. Furthermore, the fixing efficiency (i.e., the reliability of the mechanical connection to the jaw) of the Burnett device was tested.


METHODS
In 10 patients we recorded pseudodynamic opening motions by means of MRI and optical tracking technology (as known from image-guided surgery) synchronously; natural opening motions by spatiotemporal tracking only. The MRI was used to allow for interpretation of the pseudodynamic motion as recorded by means of optoelectronic tracking.


RESULTS
In 3 subjects the pseudodynamic differed from the natural opening in occurrence of a loop (i.e., a short backward motion of the condyle during the opening process that results from the application of the Burnett device and does not correspond to a natural jaw movement). Fifty percent of the opening steps showed unintended motion and thus did not keep the mandible still during the MRI scan.


CONCLUSIONS
A method was provided to detect motion during MRI scan using optoelectronic tracking. Pseudodynamic motion may differ from natural motion.
Seemann
Rudolf
R
University Hospital of Cranio-Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. rudolf.seemann@meduniwien.ac.at
Czerny
Christian
C
Schicho
Kurt
K
Undt
Gerhard
G
Piehslinger
Eva
E
Ewers
Rolf
R
Wagner
Arne
A
D000328:Adult; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D007259:Infrared Rays; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000502:physiology; D009068:Movement; D023861:Photography, Dental; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000502:physiology*