Magnetic resonance imaging of the temporomandibular joint. Value of axial images.

The purpose of this study was to determine the value of axial images for diagnosis of disk displacement and osseous changes of the temporomandibular joint. Sagittal, coronal, and axial magnetic resonance images were obtained of 35 fresh temporomandibular joint autopsy specimens. The sagittal and coronal images were interpreted for position of the disk and osseous changes. The value of the axial images for diagnosis of the disk and osseous components was classified into one of four categories: 1) did not add diagnostic information, 2) confirmed findings of sagittal and coronal images, 3) added diagnostic information but did not change the diagnosis, 4) changed the diagnosis. The results showed that the axial images did not add diagnostic information concerning position of the disk in 5 joints, confirmed the diagnosis in 29 joints, and added information but did not change the diagnosis in 1 joint. Concerning osseous abnormalities, the axial images did not add any diagnostic information in 5 joints, confirmed findings of the sagittal and coronal images in 26 joints, added information but did not change the diagnosis in 3 joints and changed the diagnosis in 1 joint. On the basis of these results, it is concluded that the axial plane of imaging of the temporomandibular joint is of relatively little value for assessment of disk displacement and osseous changes. Axial imaging is therefore not recommended for diagnosis of disk position and osseous abnormalities.