Temporomandibular joint synovial osteochondromatosis: CT manifestations

Synovial osteochondromatosis is a rare arthropathy of the temporomandibular joint. We report the computed tomographic findings in two subjects with this disorder. Both patients had increased soft-tissue density in the joint with multiple small calcified densities, many of which displayed peripheral calcification. Extensive erosions of the surrounding bony structures were present, affecting the condylar process and fossa, and, in one instance, the walls of the external auditory and carotid canals were thinned. We believe that computed tomography is superior to conventional imaging techniques and is useful in the depiction of disease and surgical planning in patients with temporomandibular joint synovial osteochondromatosis.