Computerized ultrasonic axiographic evaluation of condylar movement in patients with internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate condylar movement during lateral excursion in individuals with internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) using ultrasonic axiography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 34 patients with internal derangement of the TMJ and 34 participants in the control group were examined. Mandibular functional movement was recorded by ultrasonic axiography. Three-dimensional condylar movement was measured in the working and balancing condyles. RESULTS: Significant differences in condylar movement were found between the two groups. In the group with internal derangement of the TMJ, the three-dimensional linear distances of the condylar path in a working condyle were greater than in the control group during lateral excursion. The speed of the balancing condyle in the returning path of lateral excursion was significantly greater in the group with internal derangement than in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study indicate that internal derangement of TMJ may affect the working and balancing condylar movements during lateral excursion.