Finite Elements Analysis of the Temporomandibular Joint Disc in Patient with Intra-articular Disorders

Abstract Background：Anterior and/or medial displacement of the articular disc or intra-articular disorders( ID) is the most common form of TMJ dysfunction.In the present study,3D finite elements analysis (FEA) models including the maxilla, disc and mandible were established using 3D data registration technology.Methods：Six healthy volunteers and 20 TMD patients were selected.CT and MRI data were collected to build 3D FEA model of mandibular and TMJ disc.Stress distribution with different friction coefficient was measured.Result:Results showed that maximum stress of the lateral articular disc in the normal and pathological models. In the normal model, stress distribution was 2.21,1.56,1.49 MPa with 0.001 0.3 and 0.4 friction coefficient.In ID model,stress distribution is 3.87,7.23,7.77MPa respectively. Conclusion:When the friction coefficient of the side with anterior displacement increased, stress on the disc, condyle and mandible of the opposite side increased. Simultaneously, stress values of the disc, condyle and mandible were higher than those of the normal lateral joint.