[Synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint]

Synovial chondromatosis is an uncommon monoarticular proliferative disease of the synovium characterized by loose bodies developed in the synovial membrane. The literature is reviewed and two cases of synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint characterized by swelling, pain and limitation of mandibular movement are reported. Radiographic evidence of loose bodies may or may not be present. Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) might be helpful in the diagnosis of synovial chondromatosis. The treatment of choice of synovial chondromatosis is surgical and the loose bodies should be removed by arthrotomy with examination of the joint cavity. In our patients, no recurrence had occurred according to other authors' experience.