An investigation of the diagnostic value of computerized axiography in evaluating the dynamic function of the temporomandibular joint in patients with disc displacement.

AIM: To explore the diagnostic value of computerized axiography for patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc displacement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 17 patients with bilateral temporomandibular disorder (34 TMJs) were treated with a stabilization splint for 7.26 ± 1.82 months. The TMJs were divided into two groups-disc displacement with reduction (DDwR) (n = 20) and disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR) (n = 14)-according to pretreatment MRI. Computer-aided diagnosis axiography (CADIAX) was used to record and analyze the results of the condylography examinations, including the range, morphologic characteristics, and stability of condylar movement. RESULTS: Computerized axiography can effectively assist in the 3D visualization of the TMJs. Condylography confirms that both the range and stability of condylar movement were improved after treatment with the stabilization splint. In addition, coordination of bilateral joint movements was also improved. CONCLUSION: Computerized axiography could be used to perform comparative analyses of the two TMJs and provide real-time evaluation of condylar movements in three dimensions. The result of this study suggests that computerized axiography can be used for periodic evaluation of the treatment progression of temporomandibular disorder.