[Magnetic resonance imaging in study of the temporo-mandibular joint. II. Pathologic findings]

A total of 107 temporomandibular joints (TMJ) were examined with two superconductive MR units at 1T and 1.5T. In 73 TMJs, MR revealed 55 disk displacements, 7 disk perforations, 10 joint space adhesions, 33 osteoarthrities, 3 avascular necroses of the mandibular condyle, and 25 joint effusions. These abnormalities are described and discussed. In spite of some limitations--e.g., motion artifacts and patients' claustrophobia--MR imaging is the procedure of choice in abnormal TMJs, because it yields useful information as to therapeutic choice (conservative versus surgical). Arthrography can be used as a complementary study technique in the patients with marked disagreement between clinical and MR findings. Arthroscopy should be used as a surgical procedure in abnormal TMJs selected by previous MR studies.