[Imaging of mandibular malformations and deformities].

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Mandibular deformities present a wide spectrum of clinical presentations.
• Clinical examination is the primary diagnostic tool, but imaging is vital for surgical planning.
• Certain growth abnormalities can mimic true malformations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the essential role of imaging in evaluating diverse mandibular deformities.
• To detail the specific applications of CT and MRI in diagnosing and planning treatment for various conditions.
• To underscore the complementary nature of imaging to clinical assessment.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging modalities, primarily Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging.
• Emphasis on CT with 3D reformations for detailed anatomical assessment.
• Correlation of imaging findings with specific pathologies and clinical presentations.

Main Results:

• CT imaging is essential for dystrophies like fibrous dysplasia, neurofibromatosis, Gorlin syndrome, and cherubism.
• CT or MR evaluation is necessary for condylar fracture sequelae, ankylosis, and unilateral mandibular hypoplasia.
• CT with 3D reformations aids in evaluating orthognathic problems, hypercondylia, and lateral facial clefts.
• MR is valuable for soft tissue assessment in conditions such as Parry-Romberg syndrome and Pierre Robin dysostosis.

Conclusions:

• Imaging, especially CT and MR, is indispensable for the comprehensive evaluation and surgical planning of mandibular deformities.
• Different imaging techniques offer unique insights into bony and soft tissue abnormalities.
• Accurate diagnosis through imaging facilitates tailored treatment strategies for complex craniofacial anomalies.