Application of MRI in indirect temporomandibular joint injury without condylar fracture.

Objective: To discuss the application of MRI in indirect temporomandibular joint injury without condylar fracture.

Methods: MRI examination on temporomandibular joint was conducted in 28 patients with indirect injury to temporomandibular joint without condylar fracture. The scanning sequence included T(1)WI, PDWI on oblique sagittal section at both open and closed mouth positions, and T(1)WI, T(2)WI on oblique coronal section. The MRI appearance was analyzed by 2 senior radiologists.

Results: Among the 56 temporomandibular joints of 28 patients, 35 joints exhibited pathological changes on MRI, in which there were 9 bone injuries, 21 articular disc dislocation, 24 intracapsular hematocele and hydrops.

Conclusions: MRI can clearly reveal bone injury, articular disc dislocation as well as articular capsule abnormality in the indirect injury of temporomandibular joint without condylar fracture. It is highly advocated in clinical use.