Uses of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in presurgical evaluation of internal derangement of temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

Nine cases of unilateral internal derangement of TMJ indicated for surgical intervention, were selected for this study. The affected joints were imaged by MRI presurgically. The non-affected joints were also imaged as controls. MRI findings were correlated with intraoperative surgical findings. The results were absolutely accurate as regards degenerative joint pathosis and capsular rupture, and with high degree of accuracy (85.7%) in detection of disc displacement. Two cases of disc perforation were not detected by MRI. The results were promising and encouraging the use of this noninvasive imaging technique as presurgical aid in TMJ disorders.