Structural abnormalities of the temporalis tendon in patients diagnosed with chronic orofacial pain conditions

The diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), specifically TMD myalgia, can be challenging. Although the anatomy of the jaw muscles has been extensively characterized, a structural difference in TMD-myalgia individuals has never been demonstrated. Tendons are a highly specialized tissue with a predominately mechanical function. Collagen fibrils, the main contributor to tendon mechanical properties, begin macroscopic failure at 8% to 10% strain. The characterization of tendon/muscle abnormalities in individuals with chronic, painful TMD myalgia will lay the groundwork for utilizing noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for screening and objective monitoring of patients with TMD myalgia.

Source: Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontics - September 25, 2019 Category: ENT & OMF Authors: G. KRISHNAMOORTHY, I. CIOFFI, M. MOAYEDI, L. HENDERSON, T. P.Y. Source Type: research