Analysis of clinical and imaging characteristics of synovial chondromatosis of temporomandibular joint

Objective To study the clinical and radiologic findings of synovial chondromatosis (SC) and provide a reference for its radiologic diagnosis by using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) arthrography. Methods Twenty-one patients presenting to our clinic with SC diagnosed histopathologically were included in the study. The clinical manifestations, radiographic findings, surgical treatment, and histopathologic features of the disease were investigated. The features of SC of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) on CBCT arthrography were summarized. Results SC of the TMJ occurred more often in women. Its main symptoms included swelling, crepitations, preauricular pain, and limitation of mandibular movement. The detection rate of calcified loose bodies was 100% on CBCT arthrography. SC mainly affected the superior joint space and could involve the inferior space through a perforated disc and could be easily detected with CBCT arthrography. Conclusions The characteristic round-like filling defect of SC of the TMJ could be easily detected on CBCT arthrography images. Therefore, CBCT arthrography with contrast medium injection plays an important role in the diagnosis of SC. Key words: Temporomandibular joint; Chondromatosis, synovial; Cone-beam computed tomography