Condylar position indicator and T-scan system II in clinical evaluation of temporomandibular intracapsular disease

Introduction: The pathogenesis of temporomandibular joint intracapsular disease (TMJI) is multifactorial and its diagnosis is not easy. In this work authors show two types of clinical analysis: the Condylar Position Indicator (CPI) and T-Scan 2 system. Material and methods: Twenty patients (mean age of 24.5 years) with TMJI problem and 10 healthy matched subjects (mean age: 25.4 years) were selected. Analysis of TMJI was performed on each patient by means of Condylar Position Indicator (CPI) and T-Scan System II tests. Results: Eight patients presented vertical symmetrical condylar distraction greater than healthy subjects (P-value < 0.001). T-Scan showed a difference of Percentage of Force (POF) not greater than 5%. Seven patients showed sagittal shift greater than healthy subject (P-value < 0.001). T-Scan records showed a difference of POF greater than 5%. Five non-healthy subjects presented sagittal, vertical, transverse shift greater than healthy subjects (P-value < 0.001). T-Scan records show a difference of POF greater than 5%. Conclusion: In this work authors present a new method of analysis. CPI indicates discrepancy of the condyle position in CO from CR and T-Scan allows the operator to study all teeth contacts and occlusal forces taking place during dynamic jaw movement. © 2011 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery.