Temporomandibular joint MRI: A 2-D gradient-echo technique

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) has been most commonly performed using spin-echo sequences, Gradient-echo sequences have previously been investigated in the context of 3-D and 'dynamic' (pseudo-kinematic) imaging, We have used gradient-echo to improve image quality in static studies with rapid acquisition, high spatial resolution (512 x 512 matrix) and excellent contrast resolution, Using pragmatic methods and a non-randomized study group we have demonstrated a definite advantage to image quality, and thus diagnostic confidence, from the use of a gradient-echo high spatial resolution sequence incorporating split acquisition open mouth views.