Unveiling degenerative bone changes in the condyle: a texture analysis approach using cone-beam computed tomography.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Biomedical Imaging

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders encompass degenerative joint disease.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) enables tissue characterization via texture analysis.
• Texture parameters can differentiate tissues based on their properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate degenerative diseases in the TMJ using texture analysis.
• To assess the potential of texture analysis in characterizing TMJ bone changes.
• To differentiate between various degenerative conditions affecting the TMJ.

Main Methods:

• Eighty CBCT images of jaw condyles with flattening, osteophytes, erosion, and controls were analyzed.
• Texture analysis was performed on three regions of interest (ROIs) per condyle.
• MaZda software was used to calculate co-occurrence matrix values for texture parameters.

Main Results:

• The erosion group exhibited significantly different textural behavior across all analyzed parameters.
• Texture analysis revealed distinct patterns for different degenerative conditions.

Conclusions:

• Texture analysis shows potential for characterizing medullary bone changes in eroded TMJ condyles.
• This method offers a comprehensive assessment of bone condition on CBCT images.
• Findings support early detection, monitoring, and personalized treatment planning for TMJ degenerative diseases.