Magnetic resonance evaluation of temporomandibular joint components in successfully treated cases of closed lock with a stuck disc

The purpose of this study was to evaluate morphological changes in temporomandibular joint components by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, 1.5 Tesla) before and after treatment for closed lock with a stuck disc. A total of 25 joints (25 patients) that were successfully treated and showed marked improvement in range of motion and articular pain after treatment were studied. Each joint was evaluated on the basis of pretreatment and posttreatment MRI findings, including disc mobility, condylar translation, disc reduction, disc shape, degree of disc displacement, bone changes of the condyle, and signal intensity of the posterior disc attachment. Posttreatment MRI revealed that all joints had mobile discs, and the range of the condylar translation had increased. Deformity of the disc and condyle had progressed remarkably. The posterior disc attachment showed low signal intensity. These results suggest that improved disc mobility is indispensable for successful treatment. The results also reveal that the disc, condyle, and posterior attachment showed various changes caused by remodeling. (author)