Morphological Variations of the Condyle Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography – A Retrospective Study.

Abstract

Background: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) can detect morphological variations of the condyle accurately in three dimensions. This study was conducted to assess the morphology of the condyle using three dimensional cone beam computed tomography in coronal and sagittal sections. Materials and method: This was a retrospective study where cone beam computed tomography images from radiology archives were analysed to assess the morphology of right and left condyles with planmeca promax 3D using romexis software. 50 images (100 condyles bilaterally) of the patients between age group 15 to 45 yrs (Mean age 30 yrs) formed our study group. Qualitative data analysis was done using chi square test. Results: In coronal view 4 types of condyles were seen type I convex 49%; type II flat 21%; type III round 23% and typeIV angled 7% (p value <0.05). In sagittal view three types of condyles were elucidated type I round 78%, type II flat 8% and type III beaked 14% (p value<0.05). Conclusion: Morphological variations of condyle in both sagittal and coronal sections using cone beam computed tomography have been observed along with varied distribution and prevalence among different age groups. Radiographic evaluation of condylar morphology aids in an early detection of the temporomandibular joint disorders and functional alterations which is facilitated more accurately in three planes by cone beam computed tomography.