Clinical evaluation of the temporomandibular joint anatomy using hologram models: a retrospective study

Objectives: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the only synovial joint in head region and is exposed to very strong pressure, especially during chewing. Disorders of this joint are quite common and occur with severe pain. Recent studies focused on the ideal surgical procedures to manage disorders and pathologies of TMJ. The number of studies on prosthesis implantations for the condylar process is also increasing; therefore, the three-dimensional anatomical organization of the TMJ becomes important. Methods: Computed tomography images of 160 healthy individuals (82 women, 78 men) submitted to the Radiology Department of Bal›kesir University Hospital from 2016 and to the first three months of 2018 were evaluated retrospectively to describe the detailed three-dimensional anatomical organization of this joint. The anterior, posterior and superior articular spaces between the condylar process and the temporal bone were measured. Anteroposterior condyle diameter and condyle height were also evaluated. Data were compared for age and gender. Results: The mean value of superior articular distance was measured as 2.39 mm, anterior articular distance 1.83 mm, posterior articular distance 1.99 mm and diameter of the condylar process 10.38 mm. Statistical results indicated that there were gender differences among the parameters. Conclusion: The results of the present study point out to the importance of the gross anatomy of the TMJ and revealed the differences between genders and individuals. These data may guide surgeons for planning the ideal surgical protocols during managing of joint disorders.