COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY EVALUATION IN THE TREATMENT OF TEMPROMANDIBULAR JOINT ANKYLOSIS

Abstract

Accurate radiographs are invaluable to the correct diagnosis and treatment planning of TMJ ankylosis. In a retrospective clinical study CT scan of five patients of TMJ ankylosis were reviewed to establish the clinical value of computed tomography. Presence or absence of assessment criterias like Ankylosis of the joint, Unilateral or Bilateral ankylosis, Bony or Fibrous status, Anterioposterior width   54, Medial extension of the mass, Elongation of Coronoid process & involvement of major anatomic structures were noted and evaluated on CT scans. This data was compared with the records of intra-operative findings. With all the criteria the findings of CT were in confirmation with the patient’s intra-operative records. Thus, no significant difference was found between the two findings. The present study enables us to conclude that CT images can be useful to the clinician in diagnosis and treatment planning of TMJ ankylosis. These methods enhance the accuracy of diagnostic decisions and the establishment of appropriate treatment plans.