Condylocoronal angle of the human mandible--its radiological implications

Abstract

26 dry specimens of mandible were utilised for making antropometric & condylo coronal angle measurements. 26 living subjects were radiographed in a standardized SMV an CCA values were established. Average value of Antero posterior dimension was obtained to be 8.5 mm and latero medial dimension obtained to be 17 mm. Left and right condylo coronal angle (CCA) from dry specimens was assessed to be 18 & 16 respectively. From the living subjects CCA was established as 17 degrees in Indian population. The following radiological implications are evident from this study. (1) A tomographic cut of the TMJ if done at the depth of 8 to 9 mm i.e. half of 17 mm (lateromedial dimension average) it would pass through the centre of the condyle and may contribute to the diagnostic importance. (2) The CCA of 17 degrees obtained for Indian population may be utilized by clinicans to obtain clearer transpharyngeal and transcranial views of the TMJ by adjusting the radiographic cone to 17 degrees tilt in horizontal angulation keeping the standard values for vertical angulation as--10 degrees for transpharyngeal and +25 degrees for transcranial views.