Three-Dimensional Volume Rendering in Computed Tomography for Evaluation of the Temporomandibular Joint in Dogs

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of dogs is a bilateral joint mainly used for chewing, and subsequently, an area where pathologies are frequently seen. Computed tomography (CT) represents a very important imaging modality used to diagnose TMJ diseases in dogs. A three-dimensional representation of CT images created by a volume rendering method (3DVR) could improve our understanding of the alterations in this joint. In this study, we assessed 3DVR as an ancillary method for the description and diagnosis of TMJ pathologies in dogs. ABSTRACT: Based on computed tomography (CT) images, volume rendering was used to obtain a three-dimensional representation of data (3DVR). The aims of this study included: describing the bone anatomy of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of dogs; comparing the TMJs of each dog by skull type and age; comparing 3DVR images with three-standard-plane CTs; assessing soft tissues adjacent to the TMJ and assessing pathological cases. Multidetector computed tomography scans of bilateral TMJs of 410 dogs were observed. From a ventral view, slight displacements in the positions of the skulls were seen, whereas from a caudal view, differences in amplitude of the articular space were observed. Dolichocephalic and mesaticephalic dogs showed more similar TMJ features than brachycephalic dogs. The shape of the TMJ bones were irregular in dogs under 1 year old. The 3DVR images related to the three-standard-plane CT improved the overall comprehension of the changes in the articular space amplitude and condylar process morphology. The fovea pterygoidea, mandibular fossa and retroarticular process were perfectly shown. A better spatial situation of adjacent soft tissues was obtained. The 3DVR represents an ancillary method to the standard-plane CT that could help in the understanding of the anatomy and diagnoses of different pathologies of the TMJ in dogs.