Multiplanar MR imaging of the temporomandibular joint: The importance of coronal images and the medial subcondylar fossa

Sagittal imaging of the temporomandibular joint utilizing arthrography, CT, and, more recently, MR imaging is most frequently employed since an anteriorly displaced meniscus has been the most commonly described internal meniscal derangement. In this study, 40 cadaver specimens were examined by MR imaging in sagittal and coronal planes. Coronal sections demonstrated a well-defined fossa (not previously radiographically described) medial to the condylar neck and inferior to the medial pole of the condyle. In this study, 18% of the internal derangements identified had a significant medial displacement of the meniscus that was not well demonstrated on the sagittal images. MR coronal images permit the identification of the ''medial subcondylar fossa'' into which medial displacement of the meniscus occurs