Management of temporomandibular joint ankylosis: 11 years' clinical experience

ObjectiveMany surgical techniques to manage temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis have been described in the literature. The purpose of this paper is to report one institution's experience using various management techniques and to evaluate the results of these surgical interventions.Study designThe records from our hospital of 42 patients treated for TMJ ankylosis between 1996 and 2007 were reviewed. Pre- and postoperative assessment included age, gender, etiology, ankylosis type/classification, existing facial asymmetry, maximal pre- and postoperative mouth opening, arthroplasty method (gap or interpositional arthroplasty), complications, and recurrence of ankylosis.ResultsThe mean maximal incisal opening in the preoperative period was 7.51 ± 6.48 mm and in the post operative period was 27.74 ± 7.86 mm. All patients experienced significant reduction of pain during function and resumed eating a normal diet. There was no facial nerve paralysis. There was recurrence in 3 cases.ConclusionJoint reconstruction with interpositional arthroplasty for the treatment of ankylosis proved to be effective regarding the prevention of recurrence and restoration of joint function and patient quality of life. Early postoperative exercises, appropriate physiotherapy, and close follow-up play an important role in the prevention of recurrence.