Cone-Beam Computed Tomography for Temporomandibular Joint Imaging

Abstract

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be viewed using various imaging techniques. Due to relatively low radiation doses and excellent spatial resolution, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is being utilized more frequently in dental-maxillofacial imaging. For the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ disorders, an imaging examination is required. The osseous compartment is visualized using conventional CT, and CBCT and soft tissue imaging are extremely well appreciated on MRI. However, conventional TMJ imaging has its limitations due to its two-dimensional view and adjacent anatomical superimposition. TMJ imaging helps analyze the cortical and the bony compartment's trabaculae and assess the degree of skeletal abnormalities. TMJ imaging protocols are also used to evaluate treatment responses. CBCT is the three-dimensional imaging of the bony compartment and joint space and the morphology of the bone visualized by removing superimposition and distortion. Compared to multislice CT, CBCT produces high-resolution multiplanar images with a reduced dose of radiation. The role of CBCT imaging in determining the normal bony anatomy and pathological changes is appropriately delineated in this paper. This work will focus on the use of CBCT for the examination of TMJ in various patient categories, including those with osteoarthritis, remodeling, ankylosis, trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, synovial chondromatosis, and other intracapsular pathologies.

Keywords: cone-beam computed tomography; mandibular asymmetry; osseous changes; temporomandibular disorder; temporomandibular joint.

Figure 1. Anatomy of the temporomandibular joint.