Relationship between alteration of horizontal size and bony morphological change in the mandibular condyle

Objective: To analyse the relationship between horizontal size and morphological changes on the articular surface and the lateral part of the mandibular condyle. Methods: The study group comprised 139 joints in 88 women aged over 18 years. Horizontal condylar size was measured in the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) dimensions using axial MR images. Bony morphological change on the articular surface (sagittal change) was assessed on the sagittal MR image, and resorption of the lateral part of the condyle (RLC) was assessed on a plane radiograph in the AP projection. Results: There was no significant relationship between horizontal condylar size and sagittal change. However, condyles with RLC were smaller than those without RLC in the ML dimension. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest a possible relationship between decreased horizontal condylar size and RLC. It is also suggested that sagittal bone changes do not influence the horizontal size of the condyle.