Volumetric Assessment of TMJ Spaces and Its Correlation with the Age and Gender of The Patient. A Retrospective Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Study.

Abstract

Background: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) enables the three-dimensional assessment of TMJ spaces, which can enhance our understanding of the pathophysiological changes that impact the TMJ spaces throughout various stages of growth.

Objectives: Evaluation of volume of temporomandibular joint space across gender and various age groups.

Method: A retrospective analysis of CBCT scans from 64 patients (128 TMJ spaces) was carried out using a semiautomatic segmentation technique with the "ITK-Snap" program. The total and the mean TMJ space volume was then calculated according to age group, gender, and laterality.

Results: The right total TMJ space volume was found to be significantly larger than the left irrespective of gender and age groups. Males had a larger TMJ space volume than females but the differences were not statistically significant. The volume of the total TMJ spaces was highly significant in 51-60 years of age compared to all other age groups.

Conclusion: An accurate assessment of TMJ space volumes using CBCT can lead to early diagnosis for TMJ disorders related to malocclusions, trauma, or remodelling. The collected data could be of clinical importance in establishing baseline values of TMJ space volume in the Indian subcontinent.