Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography of the temporomandibular joint: beyond dysfunction*

Received September 17, 2007. Accepted after revision January 8, 2008. of the isotropic acquisition properties of the method. The high-resolution of the method is ideal for assessing bone structures and their abnormalities. Currently, a 16-channel multislice CT equipment is utilized for 0.75 mm collimation volume acquisitions, with open and closed mouth views. Later, images are analyzed on the axial, coronal and sagittal planes, and the volume rendering technique is utilized for 3D images reconstruction. MRI is currently the method of choice for evaluating this joint, because of its excellent capability to demonstrate the TMJ anatomy, particularly when a specific surface coil is employed. High contrast resolution images demonstrate soft tissues and can be obtained with the mouth closed or at different degrees of mouth opening, therefore providing functional data. In the author’s institution, the protocol described on Table 1 is utilized, and the utilization of Garcia MM, Machado KFS, Mascarenhas MH. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography of the temporomandibular joint: beyond dysfunction. Radiol Bras. 2008;41(5):337–342.