Correlation between Clinical Features & MRI Findings in Patients with Internal Derangement of Temporomandibular Joint

Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a collective term embracing a number of clinically distinct problem including myalagia, internal derangement, arthritic problem & disorders of mobility & growth.
Aim of study: The aim of this study is to make correlation analysis between clinical signs of temporomandibular internal derangement and magnetic imaging for diagnosis of disk displacement with or without reduction and disk configuration.
Material and method: Eighteen patients were examined according to Helkimo index which include impaired TMJ function, impaired range of movement, TMJ tenderness muscle tenderness &pain during mandibular movement.
Results: The results showed significant correlation between Helkimo index and MRI findings, in that as the severity of index increased, there was an increase in progression of disk displacement, and when the index was mild 88.9% of the joints were with normal disk position, the posterior band of disk was on 12 o’clock position on top of condyle and about 11.1% had disk displacement with reduction, the disk return to normal position relative to condyle in open mouth position and no patient had disk displacement without reduction.
Conclusion: There is significant correlation between clinical signs and MRI findings.