Magnetic resonance imaging in diagnostic of temporomandibular disorders

The purpose of the paper is to present magnetic resonance imaging as the useful technique in establishing diagnosis of functional disorders of the temporomandibular joint, on the basis of case studies because this technique has not yet been widely used in our country. The MR images were used for assessment of the normal functional anatomy, as well as the forms of functional disorders of the temporomandibular joints (disc displacement with reduction and without reduction). Standard oblique sagittal planes with T1 sequences obtained using Magneton Impact (Siemens) apparatus at 1.0 T with surface coil of 10 cm diameter were used. The MR images were taken in the open mouth and closed mouth positions in the oblique sagittal plane vertical to the longitudinal axis of the condyle. Magnetic resonance imaging is a non-invasive technique using magnetic field and radio frequency pulses instead of ionising radiation for image creation. Among all known radiologic techniques, magnetic resonance imaging proved to be the best technique of choice for visualization of soft and hard tissues of the temporomandibular joints. In general, the magnetic resonance technique is used in cases of doubtful diagnosis and therapeutic failure of temporomandibular disorders. Besides in diagnostics, the technique can be used in assessment of various methods of treatment of temporomandibular disorders (where conditions before and after treatment are assessed). Also, it is used for better understanding of pathophysiology and biomechanics of the temporomandibular joints, that has been proved by numerous scientific studies.