Evaluation of mallear ligaments in different voxel resolutions using cone beam computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Background:

• The petrotympanic fissure and associated mallear ligaments are crucial anatomical structures within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
• Variations in these structures may influence TMJ biomechanics and contribute to symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the visibility of the discomallear and anterior mallear ligaments using cone beam CT.
• To conduct morphometric measurements of the petrotympanic fissure.
• To determine correlations between mallear ligaments and TMJ bone compartment changes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 275 patient cone beam CT scans.
• Evaluation of discomallear and anterior mallear ligament visibility by two observers.
• Classification of petrotympanic fissure types and morphometric measurements of the fissure and mandibular fossa.

Main Results:

• Type 3 petrotympanic fissure was more prevalent in males; Types 1 and 2 were more common in females.
• Anterior mallear ligament visibility was significantly higher in cases with TMJ bone compartment changes.
• Petrotympanic fissure types 1, 2, 3, and 4 were observed in 11.5%, 35.63%, 51.34%, and 1.53% of patients, respectively.

Conclusions:

• Anatomical knowledge of mallear ligaments and petrotympanic fissure is vital for understanding TMJ disorders.
• Anterior mallear ligament visibility on CBCT may indicate underlying TMJ bone changes.
• Further research is warranted to explore the physiopathological link between these anatomical variations and TMJ-related symptoms.