Fast spin-echo imaging of the temporomandibular joint

The applicability of a fast spin-echo (FSE) technique for magnetic resonance imaging of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) was studied, and the technique compared with a conventional spin-echo (CSE) technique. Sagittal T1-weighted CSE and dual-echo FSE images of 50 TMJs in 25 patients with symptoms of internal TMJ derangement were compared. CSE and FSE images were diagnostically comparable in 22 TMJs (44%). The FSE technique was rated better than CSE imaging for delineation of the disk in 26 joints (52%), whereas the CSE technique was rated better in only two joints (4%). The FSE technique was preferred overall in 54% of the joints. Mild to moderate joint effusion was detected in 17 joints because additional T2-weighted data were provided with the dual-echo FSE technique. The study showed that FSE imaging is an effective technique for evaluation of the TMJ. It is faster and diagnostically comparable to or better than CSE imaging, with the added advantage of providing T2-weighted data.