The purpose of this study, using an animal model, was to evaluate the relationship between disc displacement of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and osteoarthrosis.
The disc was surgically displaced anteriorly in the right TMJ in each of 25 rabbits. The TMJs were removed after 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks and stained with H&E.
11 joints had partial anterior disc displacement, 8 joints with complete anterior disc displacement and 6 joints with perforation. The partial anterior disc displacement joints showed early degenerative or physiologic remodeling changes, the complete anterior disc displacement and perforation joints showed degenerative or severe osteoarthritic changes.
The degree of anterior disc displacement of TMJ relates to the osteoarthrosis. The farther anteriorly, the more easily disc displacement can cause the osteoarthrosis.