A technique to verify adequacy of eminectomy for recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation

Abstract

Recurrent dislocation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be highly debilitating, especially if the dislocation cannot be reduced by the patient. Despite being regarded as a ‘gold standard’ or ‘salvage’ procedure for refractory TMJ dislocations, complete mediolateral removal of the articular eminence can still lead to recurrences. A technique aimed at intraoperatively verifying the adequacy of osseous reduction in order to minimize the risk of re-dislocation of the TMJ is described.