Retrospective Analysis of Use of Buccal Fat Pad as an Interpositional Graft in Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis: Preliminary Study

PurposeTo evaluate the feasibility and usefulness of buccal fat pad as an interpositional graft in the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis.Materials and MethodsA retrospective study of 10 patients with TMJ ankylosis (9 unilateral and 1 bilateral) was performed with follow-up of 6 months to 2 years.ResultsIn the present study, patients had a maximum interincisal opening of 32 to 41 mm (mean, 35.1 mm) at the latest follow-up. Mean deviation to the affected side on mouth opening was 1.6 mm (range, 0 to 4 mm), but chewing function was good and all the patients were satisfied. No major occlusal changes were observed and all the patients had satisfactory occlusion at the follow-up periods. No facial paresis of temporal and zygomatic branch of facial nerve was observed in any case. Periodic panoramic radiographs showed well-maintained intra-articular space because of the interposed tissue, with no signs of relapse.ConclusionThe findings of this study showed the short-term successful management of TMJ ankylosis using buccal fat pad as an interpositional graft.