Changes in computed tomography values and morphology of the condyle and glenoid fossa before and after orthognathic surgery in female jaw deformity patients

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the computed tomography (CT) values and morphology of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), specifically the condyle and glenoid fossa, in female patients with jaw deformities before and after orthognathic surgery. The maximum CT values were measured on the condylar and glenoid fossa surfaces. In addition, the height, length, and area of the glenoid fossa in the sagittal plane were evaluated for the bilateral TMJs, preoperatively and one year postoperatively. The ramus height, condylar square, ramus angle, and gonial angle were also measured. A total of 148 TMJs from 74 patients were analyzed. Both condylar and ramus heights decreased one year after surgery in class II and class III patients (P < 0.05). The glenoid fossa area significantly increased one year after surgery in class II (P = 0.0005). Significant postoperative increases in CT values were observed at the 0°, 135°, and 180° points on the condylar surface and at the 135° and 180° points on the glenoid fossa surface in class II patients (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that in class II patients, substantial morphological and CT value changes occurred in the condyle and glenoid fossa one year following orthognathic surgery.