Evaluating mandibular condyle shapes three dimensionally in different skeletal patterns: A clinical approach

Abstract

Background:
The mandibular condyle, a critical structure in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), exhibits variations in shape across different skeletal patterns, which may impact joint function and stability. Evaluating condylar morphology in a three-dimensional (3D) manner offers a more accurate representation than two-dimensional assessments, facilitating better clinical insights. This study aims to analyze the 3D shapes of the mandibular condyle across various skeletal patterns to determine any morphological differences.

Materials and Methods:

This clinical study included 60 subjects divided into three skeletal pattern groups: Class I (n=20), Class II (n=20), and Class III (n=20). A Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan was used for imaging each subject’s mandibular condyle. 3D reconstruction software was employed to analyze condylar shapes, measuring parameters such as height, width, and volume of the condyle in each group. Morphological variations were compared across the skeletal classes, and statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA with a significance level of p<0.05.

Results:
Significant differences in condylar morphology were observed across skeletal patterns. Class II subjects showed a higher condylar height (mean height: 18.2 ± 2.1 mm) than Class III subjects (mean height: 16.8 ± 1.9 mm). Class I subjects demonstrated a balanced morphology with an average width of 12.3 ± 1.5 mm and volume of 300 ± 20 mm³. Class III subjects exhibited the lowest condylar width (mean width: 10.5 ± 1.3 mm) compared to other classes. The volumetric analysis also revealed substantial differences, with Class II subjects having the largest mean condylar volume (350 ± 25 mm³).

Conclusion:
This study highlights the morphological diversity of the mandibular condyle in different skeletal patterns. Understanding these variations can aid clinicians in diagnosing and managing TMJ-related issues and planning for orthodontic or surgical interventions. Class II subjects displayed the largest condylar height and volume, which may contribute to the specific biomechanical attributes of the condyle in this skeletal pattern.