Imaging diagnostics of intracapsular disorders

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder refers to a cluster of conditions characterized by pain in the TMJ or its surrounding tissues, functional limitations of the mandible, or clicking in the TMJ during motion. TMJ disorders are common and often self-limited in the adult population. Intracapsular Disorders are characterized by structural alterations in the joint itself. Muscle disorders are far more common than intracapsular disorders. Clinical examination only cannot lead to the correct diagnosis of TMJ dysfunctions. The diagnosis and management of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) require both clinical and imaging examinations of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Imaging of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is continuously evolving with advancement of imaging technologies. Among the basic examinations used are: X ray examination (RTG), arthrography, computer tomography (CT) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasonography etc. The present paper attempts to highlight the various imaging modalities for diagnosis of intracapsular disorders. Keywords: TMJ, Arthrography, MRI imaging, Ultrasonography.