Development and histologic characteristics of synovitis induced by trauma in the rat temporomandibular joint

Histopathological changes caused by trauma to the rat temporomandibular joi nt synovium were examined by light microscopy. The trauma was induced by fo rced hypermobility of the condyle. Pathological changes of the synovium wer e found primarily in the anterior pouch of the upper joint compartment. The main findings included surface cell proliferation, increased capillary hyp eremia, fibrin deposits on the surfaces of inflamed synovial membranes, and fibrinous adhesion between closely opposed synovial membranes. A gradual c hange from fibrinous adhesion to fibrous adhesion was also seen.