Sagittal fracture of the mandibular condyle (SFMC) : its clinical image diagnosis
Wu, X.G.
Zhonghua Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi 27(5): 262-265; 318
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 1002-0098 PMID: 1306435 Document Number: 394774
Each of 12 SFMC patients (13 TMJs) underwent 8 X-ray examinations. It was found that SFMCs were easily missed from the conventional X-ray views, while CPMOT (Condyle pterygoid-maxillo oblique tomography) and CT were effective to demonstrate them. The reasons for SFMCs' being missed from the conventional views are discussed. It is concluded that the best procedure to show a possible SFMC is: the reversed Town's view-->TMJ coronal tomography or CPMOT-->CT (using coronal or CPMOT sections as the first choice). The authors declare that SFMC could not be explained by the acknowledged theory that the neck of condyle is a safety mechanism to protect the brain.