Frequency, location, morphology and aetiology of osseous mandibular condylar concavities

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the morphology, frequency, location and aetiology of osseous concavities (OC) in the mandibular condyle. The temporomandibular joints of 435 skeletonised individuals of known age, sex and ancestry were macroscopically examined for osseous concavities and signs of osteoarthritis. Descriptive statistics ( 2 ) were used to compare results. It was found that OCs were present in 17.5% of the sample and did not vary by sex or ancestry. Posteriorly positioned OCs accounted for 72% of all OCs, and the frequency of OCs decreased with increasing age in contrast to the pattern seen for osteoarthritis. It is concluded that OCs are either developmental defects related to the late maturity of the condyle, and/or a function of regressive remodelling with posterior displacement of the condyle.

TMJ osteoarthritis: A new approach to diagnosis

“…Another point to consider is that the attachment point for the capsular ligament (along the anterior/inferior rim of the mandibular condyle) can again mimic the look of marginal osteophytes, as the tensile strength of the ligament pulls along this area creating a bony response, with slight lipping to occur along this edge. Additionally, one final item must be recognized, and that is the case of osseous concavities (refer to Oxenham and Whitworth, 2006). These small depressions (shape and size vary depending on type) occur on the mandibular condyle, usually on the nonarticular and posterior surfaces.…”

“…These small depressions (shape and size vary depending on type) occur on the mandibular condyle, usually on the nonarticular and posterior surfaces. Oxenham and Whitworth (2006) suggest that these concavities may be developmental abnormalities or pseudopathological in nature. As these osseous concavities generally do not perforate the cortical layer of the mandibular condyle, they should not be confused with erosions (associated with erosive arthropathies) nor with coalesced porosity, and are not indicative of TMJ OA.…”

Momias Y Huesos en La Necrópolis Del Espigón (Puntallana, La Palma). Estudio Bioantropológico Preliminar De Una Cultura Desaparecida

“…Esta alteración parece ser más debida a causas de estrés funcional que a alteraciones óseo-degenerativas. El cóndilo izquierdo no se puede estudiar adecuadamente (M. Oxenham, 2006).…”