An investigation of the diagnostic value of computerized axiograph to evaluate dynamic function of temporomandibular joint in patients with disc displacements.

The application of paraclinical diagnosis in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) has always been a controversial topic due to the lack of universally accepted standards. Compared to medical imaging that provides TMJ structural analysis, axiography involve functional recording of condylar movement. The purpose of this study is to explore the diagnostic value of computerized axiography for patients with temporomandibular joint disc displacement. 17 patients (34 TMJs) with bilateral TMD were treated with a stabilization splint for 7.26 ± 1.82 months. TMJs were divided into 2 groups as displacement with reduction (DDwR) (n=20) and disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR) (n=14) according to pretreatment MRI. A computer-aided diagnosis axiography (CADIAX) was used to record and analyze the results of the condylography examinations, including range, morphological characteristics and stability of condylar movement. Computerized axiography can effectively assist in the three-dimensional visualization of TMJ. Condylography confirms that both range and stability of condylar movement have been improved. In addition, it also improved coordination of bilateral joint movements. Computerized axiography could perform comparative analyzes of the two joints and provide real-time evaluation of condylar movements in three dimensions. The result of this study suggests that computerized axiography can be used for the periodic evaluation of treatment progression of TMD.