Arthrosis and deviation in form in the temporomandibular joint. A macroscopic study on a human autopsy material

The right TMJ from 115 individuals, aged 1 day--93 years, were examined macroscopically regarding the occurrence of deviation in form and arthrosis in the three articulating joint components. The changes were classified according to extent. In addition, the depth of the arthrotic lesions was determined. Nearly half (48 of 102) of the adult TMJs revealed some form of change. No changes in the joint surfaces were noted from individuals under 20 years of age. Deviations in form occurred in 45 of the 48 affected joints and arthrosis in 24. The deviations in form were most common in the condyle while arthrotic lesions were noted mainly in the disk and temporal component of the joint. The changes were usually local in nature and located in the lateral one-third of the joint.