title: Imaging of temporomandibular joint: approach by direct volume rendering.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The purpose of this study was to conduct a morphological analysis of the temporomandibular joint, a highly specialized synovial joint that permits movement and function of the mandible.
  
  
  METHODS
  We have studied the temporom-andibular joint anatomy, directly on the living, from 3D images obtained by medical imaging Computed Tomography and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance acquisition, and subsequent re-engineering techniques 3D Surface Rendering and Volume Rendering. Data were analysed with the goal of being able to isolate, identify and distinguish the anatomical structures of the joint, and get the largest possible number of information utilizing software for post-processing work.
  
  
  RESULTS
  It was possible to reproduce anatomy of the skeletal structures, as well as through acquisitions of Magnetic Resonance Imaging; it was also possible to visualize the vascular, muscular, ligamentous and tendinous components of the articular complex, and also the capsule and the fibrous cartilaginous disc. We managed the Surface Rendering and Volume Rendering, not only to obtain three-dimensional images for colour and for resolution comparable to the usual anatomical preparations, but also a considerable number of anatomical, minuter details, zooming, rotating and cutting the same images with linking, graduating the colour, transparency and opacity from time to time.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  These results are encouraging to stimulate further studies in other anatomical districts.
authors: PHD Schalor, Department of Surgical and Oncological Disciplines, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy .
authors: Antonino Marco
authors: AM
authors: Cuccia
authors: Professor, Department of Surgical and Oncological Disciplines, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy .
authors: Carola
authors: C
authors: Caradonna
authors: Professor, Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy .
authors: Daniele
authors: D
authors: Bruschetta
authors: Professor, Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy .
authors: Gianluigi
authors: G
authors: Vaccarino
authors: Professor, Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy .
authors: Demetrio
authors: D
authors: Milardi
keywords: Computer generated; Magnetic resonance imaging; TMJ; Three-dimensional Imaging