OMFS Board Exam Review #16 - TMJ Pathology, Wilkes Stages, Disc Perforation & MRI Pearls

Top 5 Topics:

- Early myxomatous degeneration of the TMJ disc

- Wilkes stages explained

- Imaging findings on MRI

- Treatment strategies

- Complications & risks

*** These are live recordings of my review sessions for the oral OMFS boards that I’ll be taking in January 2025 - I can get answers and concepts wrong! Please comment, DM me, or text me with any corrections, additions, or your own board prep tips on these topics so we can learn from my mistakes. ***

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Questions & Topics:

00:00 – What is the classic triad of symptoms in early myxomatous degeneration of the TMJ disc?

02:08 – Differential diagnosis for pre-auricular pain without trauma or locking.

03:12 – Step-by-step review of the Wilkes stages of TMJ internal derangement.

04:36 – How to distinguish between disc clicking, locking, and crepitus.

05:16 – MRI findings of a Stage V perforated disc and what they mean.

06:22 – Tricks to remember Stage IV vs Stage V internal derangement.

07:36 – What exactly is disc perforation and how is it managed?

08:45 – According to OMFS Secrets, what’s the most sensitive physical exam for disc displacement?

09:49 – Total joint reconstruction: when to use prosthesis and why.

11:02 – Risks of forcing manual disc reduction: what is chondromalacia and why does it matter?

Now available on:

- Dr. Gallagher’s Podcast & YouTube Channel

My watch in this episode = Citizen Promaster Diver Day Date

- 9.2025

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