Are high-resolution ultrasonographic signs of disc displacement valid?

Purpose: The study goal was to define the positive predictive value (PPV) for the diagnosis of disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with the use of high-resolution ultrasonography (HR-US). Materials and Methods: The HR-US reports for 29 patients aged 19 to 62 years who had a prospective clinical diagnosis of TMJ internal derangement were correlated with magnetic resonance results. Results: For the prospective HR-US interpretation, the PPV for disc displacement was 97% at the closed-mouth position and 88% at the maximum-mouth opening position. Conclusion: The PPV for the HR-US diagnosis of disc displacement is high. (C) 2002 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.