Diagnostic accuracy of double-contrast arthrotomography of the temporomandibular joint: correlation with postmortem morphology

The diagnostic accuracy of double-contrast arthrotomography in the evaluation of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint is unknown. Therefore, findings from double-contrast arthrotomograms of 48 temporomandibular joint autopsy specimens were correlated with postmortem morphology seen from dissections or cryosections. Arthrotomographic diagnosis was confirmed in 41 joints, signifying a diagnostic accuracy of 85%. Misinterpretations were made in seven joints (three concerning the configuration, three concerning the position, and one concerning the configuration and position of the disk). False-positive reports due to observation errors can be avoided with improved knowledge of the joint anatomy as well as with increased experience in the technique. False-negative examinations were due to limitation of the tomographic reproduction of the lateral part of the joint.