Macroscopic, microscopic and radiologic assessment of the condylar part of the TMJ in elderly subjects. An autopsy study.

Thirty-seven temporomandibular joints were examined in an autopsy study. The sizes and forms of the condyles were found to be in good agreement with earlier presented results. Structural changes were found in 16 condyles (38%) in the macroscopic examination, while radiographically diagnosed erosions were found in 8 (21%). Twenty-two (59%) of the discs examined had either perforations, roughness or attenuations. Anterior disc position was found in 3 discs, and always in combination with a perforation of the disc.