Therapeutic planning in synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint

Synovial chondromatosis is a benign monoarticular arthropathy characterized by metaplastic cartilaginous foci developed in the synovial membrane. We present a review of the literature and report on five additional cases of synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint. Radiographic examination by computed tomographic scan allowed us to identify this disease as articular chondromatosis; however, a definitive diagnosis can be made only by histopathologic examination. In all cases surgical treatment led to the complete remission of symptomatology and to the functional recovery of the joint. Diagnosis and surgical therapy are discussed.