A clinical study of contrast-enhanced 3D-CT of upper joint compartment with closed lock

Three-dimensional (3D) analysis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) compartment is necessary for diagnosis of internal derangement of the TMJ. We performed contrast-enhanced 3D-computed tomography (C-3DCT) in the upper joint compartment of 41 TMJs of 36 patients. C-3DCT accurately diagnosed adhesion of the upper joint compartment and perforation of the disc in all cases. C-3DCT facilitates diagnosis by providing a three-dimensional presentation of the entire TMJ compartment, promoting informed consent and understanding by patients. Furthermore, C-3DCT is a useful diagnostic imaging technique before arthroscopic surgery of the TMJ. (author)