What is a CT temporomandibular joints?
A computed tomography or CT scan of the temporomandibular joints is a medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays to produce detailed, cross-sectional images of the temporomandibular joints. The temporomandibular joints are the two joints that connect the lower jawbone to the skull. This scan is helpful to detect conditions related to the TMJs.
What is the purpose of a CT temporomandibular joints?
The main purposes of a CT of the temporomandibular joints include:
- Diagnosing degenerative changes: A CT scan helps detect erosions or flattening of the condyle and the presence of osteophytes or bone spurs. All these are suggestive of osteoarthritis or other degenerative changes.
- Checking for fractures: Detecting fractures of the condyle or temporal bone is one of the most common purposes of a CT of the temporomandibular joints.
- Detecting bony abnormalities: This scan is highly effective in identifying other bony abnormalities, such as tumours or ankylosis (abnormal immobility of a joint).
- Evaluating internal disc arrangement: Although MRIs are generally performed to assess disc arrangement, CT scans are used in some cases.
- Assessing treatment response: This scan is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for temporomandibular joint disorders.
- Determining the involvement of TMJs in systemic disorders: A CT temporomandibular joints is effective to determine the involvement of TMJs in systemic disorders like juvenile idiopathic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
How is a CT temporomandibular joints performed?
Firstly, you will lie on your back on an examination table that slides into the round-shaped CT scan machine. The scanner will take pictures of both your closed-mouth and open-mouth positions from different angles. The computer then combines the slices to generate a detailed, cross-sectional picture of the TMJs. In some cases, a contrast material might be given through an IV for better visualisation of the bones and tissues.
What does an abnormal CT temporomandibular joints indicate?
An abnormal CT temporomandibular joints can indicate a range of conditions, such as:
- Osteoarthritis
- Internal derangement
- Condyler hypoplasia
- Ankylosis
- Bone tumours
- Inflammation in the joint
However, since a CT scan cannot definitively diagnose all conditions, your doctor may order further tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Fortunately, you can easily book a CT tm (temporomandibular) joints scan in Ahmedabad because there are multiple CT tm (temporomandibular) joints scan centres in Ahmedabad. So you don’t need to worry about its availability. The CT tm (temporomandibular) joints scan cost in Ahmedabad may vary depending on the type of scan you opt for. Generally, CT tm (temporomandibular) joints scan prices in Ahmedabad start from rupees 2500 only.
Frequently asked questions
What is a CT TM joints angiogram?
A CT TM joints is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to generate detailed, cross-sectional images of the temporomandibular joints.
Why is a CT TM joints done?
A CT TM joints is generally performed to detect conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints, such as structural abnormalities, degenerative changes, fractures, injuries, inflammation, and tumours.
When do I need this scan?
Healthcare professionals generally prefer this scan if there is a suspicion of fractures, injuries, or tumours.
How long does the CT TM joints take?
A CT TM joints may take about 10-20 minutes to complete.
Is the CT TM joints painful?
No, a CT TM joints is not painful.
Are there any side effects of this scan?
No, this scan does not have potential side effects. However, some people might be allergic to contrast materials.
Is contrast material used in this procedure?
A CT scan of the TM joints can be performed with or without a contrast material.