Ultrasound evaluation of the temporomandibular joint in healthy children and adolescents

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate normative values of the distance between the most lateral point of the articular capsule and the most lateral point of the mandibular condyle (LCCD), in children and adolescents. Since the disc is not always visible on ultrasound, LCCD measurement is a very practical indirect indicator for evaluating TMJ. Methods: This prospective study evaluated 141 temporomandibular joints distance of 141 pediatric individuals with a median age of 9 years (5-13) for boys and 11 years (6.5-14) for girls, comprising 69 boys and 72 girls. LCCD measurements were made with the participants in the closed mouth position, and the relationship of these values with weight, height, age, gender and body mass index (BMI) was evaluated. Results: Median LCCD values in age groups 2 and 3 were significantly higher than the age group 1 (p=0.001). There was no significant difference between median LCCD values in age group 2 and age group 3 (p=0.5). No significant difference was found among the median LCCD values of the males 1.5 mm (1.2-1.8) and females 1.4 mm (1.1-1.6). Conclusion: LCDD values increased with age, but no significant difference shown among the genders. However, a negative relation was detected with BMI. This study provides the normative quantitative values of TMJ distance which could be a reference point for upcoming studies. US is a diagnostic method that can be used in the follow-up and screening of children with TMD risk and general population. Since it does not include radiation, it can be safely repeated.