Morphometric Analysis of the Glenoid Fossa in the Skull Base.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the possible relationship between disc displacement and the presence of reduction by comparing condyle anteroposterior (AP) diameter, condyle height, mandibular fossa AP diameter, and mandibular fossa depth.

Methods: A total of 588 joints of 294 patients were included in the study for evaluation. Disc displacement and the presence of reduction, condyle AP diameter, condyle height, mandibular fossa AP diameter, and mandibular fossa depth were evaluated.

Results: Of the 588 temporomandibular joint examined in the study, there was disc displacement in 141 (24%) and no disc displacement in 447 (76%). Of the joints with disc displacement, reduction was observed in 53 (9%) and not in 88 (15%).A statistically significant correlation was determined between condyle AP diameter and disc displacement (P = 0.00); in the cases with disc displacement, the condyle AP diameter was measured smaller. A statistically significant correlation was determined with condyle height, mandibular fossa AP diameter, and fossa depth. In the patients with disc displacement, the condyle height value was lower and the measured values of the mandibular fossa AP diameter and mandibular fossa depth were higher (P = 0.00). A statistically significant relationship was determined between the presence of reduction and age, condyle AP diameter, condyle height, and articular eminence depth.

Conclusions: In conclusion, a deep and wide mandibular fossa, and a short and small condyle lay the ground for disc displacement in the temporomandibular joint.