[Arthrotomography of the pathological temporomandibular joint. II].

The findings in 308 TMJ arthrograms (280 patients) with selective contrast injection into the inferior compartment are described. An anteriorly luxated meniscus was diagnosed in 231 cases (75%). In 99 cases (32%) the meniscus returned to a normal position spontaneously during opening of the mouth, whereas in 132 cases (43%) the subluxation was permanent. In 108 patients (6%) with irreducible meniscus luxation, perforation of the meniscus or of the capsule was diagnosed, but in two cases this could not be confirmed at operation. The importance of early diagnosis for optimal treatment is discussed.