Monday May 21 , 2012
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MRI - TMJ

MRI TMJ - Overview & Technique

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is now the primary modality for the evaluation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). With the use of careful technique with dedicated coils and high spatial resolution, MRI provides exquisite tissue contrast for visualizing the soft tissue and periarticular structures of the TMJ.  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has replaced computed tomography (CT) and arthrography as the primary modality in the evaluation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Direct visualization of the disk afforded by MRI is a distinct advantage over arthrography. Despite the superior resolution of CT and limited visualization of cortical bone by MRI, most osseous pathology is accurately depicted. Intra-articular abnormalities are readily visible on MRI images, providing further information not available with other imaging modalities.

 

Temporomandibular Joint Anatomy

  • The mandibular condyle is elliptically shaped.
  • The articular surface of the temporal bone is composed of a concave articular fossa and the convex articular eminence.
  • The meniscus has a central intermediate zone which is thinner, an anterior band, and a posterior band.
  • During the closed mouth view, the mandibular condyle is well seating within the articular fossa against the posterior band.  The meniscus is between 9:00 and 12:00.
  • During the open mouth view, there is anterior translation of the mandibular condyle and meniscus.  The mandibular condyle is against the convex articular eminence and the central intermediate zone.  The meniscus is between 10:30 and 1:30 compared with the mandibular condyle.

TMJ MRI - Alternative Names and Explanations

Magnetic Resonance Imaging TMJ, MRI TMJ, MRI TMJ CPT code 70336

MRI TMJ - Benefits versus Other Diagnostic Tests

  • An MRI does not use radiation, which puts the patient at a low risk for cancer. Because the magnetic fields are so powerful, MRIs can detect many conditions early, including cancer. Since the scan is painless and non-invasive, many patients return to work or school immediately after the scan.
  • Better evaluation of ligaments
  • MRI is preferred (over CT) for evaluation of fibrous ankylosis, arthritides, inflammatory conditions and disk position.

MRI TMJ - Common Positive Findings 

  • MRI is the single most important diagnostic tool to aid in the diagnosis of TMJ conditions and diseases.
  • The TMJ is a ginglymoarthrodial (hinge and glide) articulation with some degree of diathrosis (free motion) formed by the mandibular condyle and glenoid fossa of the temporal bone
  • Displaced disks can be identified and evaluated for salvageability as well as the progression of TMJ arthritic changes.
  • MRI can also identify specific diseases and pathological entities such as idiopathic condylar resorption (ICR) and psoriatic arthritis.
  • A radiologist can compare your MRI with a normal temporomandibular joint showing normal relationship between temporal fossa, disk, and mandibular condyle.

TMJ MRI - Images

TMJ_MRI

MRI TMJ - References, Links, and Additional Information

  • University of Washington - http://www.uwmsk.org/tmj/anatomy.html:  Quicktime movies of normal motion, anterior displacement with reduction, and anterior displacement without reduction.

Schedule Your TMJ MRI Today! 

  • If you are looking for professional radiology services at your imaging site/center, call us at 1-800-626-8315 or contact us for a consultation. 

  • If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Mid-Wilshire and need to schedule a radiology examination such as a MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X ray, or PET scan, contact us to schedule an appointment. 

  • If you are in search of other things, we're surprisingly resourceful!  Call us 1-800-626-8315 or contact us via our contact form.

 
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  • TMJ MRI, MRI TMJ, Los angeles, beverly hills, glendale
  • TMJ MRI information including overview, technique, alternatives, benefits, and common findings. Schedule an MRI of the TMJ in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, or Glendale.
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