Cadaveric Study Reveals Strong Link Between Temporomandibular Joint Disc Perforation and Mandibular Condyle Bony Changes

A comprehensive cadaveric study explored the correlation between temporomandibular joint disc perforation and mandibular condyle bony changes. The study utilized 135 cadaveric mandibles (69 male, 66 female; all White) with a mean age at death of 78.7 years. Disc perforation prevalence was 34.8%, unilateral in 53.2% and bilateral in 46.8%. The incidence significantly increased with age (16.4% in <80 years; 52.9% in ≥80 years). Osteophytes, occurring in conjunction with other bony changes, displayed a larger perforated area. Findings suggest that osteophytes and flattening are likely sequels to disc perforation, emphasizing the importance of suspecting disc perforation when imaging reveals associated changes.