Unilateral Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis Research Articles

Multidisciplinary treatment of a patient with TMJ ankylosis and a severe dentofacial discrepancy: A case report.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a debilitating condition characterised by the fusion of bony or fibrous tissues in the TMJ, resulting in restricted mouth opening, functional challenges and facial deformities. This report highlights the complexity and multifaceted nature of TMJ ankylosis and emphasises the significance of early intervention and a multidisciplinary approach. Distraction osteogenesis has emerged as a successful method for managing TMJ ankylosis and associated facial asymmetry. Post-distraction orthodontic management is essential to address occlusal changes, including posterior open bite and crossbite. A 17-year-old boy with unilateral right-sided TMJ ankylosis presented with restricted mouth opening, facial asymmetry and functional difficulties. Multidisciplinary treatment planning involved distraction osteogenesis, condylectomy, coronoidectomy and orthodontic correction to achieve proper occlusion and facial aesthetics. The treatment significantly improved facial aesthetics, mouth opening, occlusion and the patient's confidence and self-esteem. This case report underscores the complexity of TMJ ankylosis and the need for a comprehensive approach, including surgical and orthodontic interventions. Collaboration among healthcare professionals and ongoing research is vital to refine treatment approaches and improve the quality of life for patients with TMJ ankylosis.

Simultaneous standard total joint prosthesis reconstruction with SSRO and Le Fort I osteotomy in the treatment of unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis with jaw deformity: a case cohort study.

Unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis with jaw deformity (UTMJAJD) may require simultaneous total joint prosthesis (TJP) reconstruction, sagittal split ramus (SSRO), and Le Fort I osteotomies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes in patients treated with these procedures. Patients diagnosed UTMJAJD between 2016 and 2018 were selected for the study. Mandible-first procedure was performed after ankylosis release with TJP on the ankylosed side and SSRO on the contralateral side. Le Fort I osteotomy with and without genioplasty was lastly performed. Maximal incisor opening (MIO), facial symmetry, and jaw and condyle stability were compared before, after operation, and during follow-ups. Seven patients were included in the study. Their average chin deviation was 9.5 ± 4.2mm, and maxillary cant was 5.1 ± 3.0°. After operation, jaw deformity significantly improved, with chin deviation corrected 7.6 ± 4.1mm (p = 0.015) and advanced 5.9 ± 2.5mm (p = 0.006). After an average follow-up of 26.6 ± 17.1months, MIO significantly increased from 11.4 ± 9.3 to 35.7 ± 2.6mm (p = 0.000). The occlusion was stable with no significant positional or rotational changes of the jaw (p > 0.05). There was no obvious condylar resorption during follow-ups. Simultaneous TJP reconstruction, SSRO, and Le Fort I osteotomy are reliable and effective methods for the treatment of UTMJAJD.

Hybrid total alloplastic temporomandibular joint replacement prosthesis: a pilot study to evaluate feasibility, functional performance and impact on post-operative quality of life.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical efficiency of hybrid alloplastic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prosthesis in patients undergoing TMJ total alloplastic joint replacement (TMJR). The prosthesis utilized for this study for TMJR is a hybrid variant with combination of stock prototype design and a partial customization of components. A prospective clinical study was conducted involving five patients with unilateral TMJ ankylosis or end-stage joint disease (ESJD) indicated for and requiring TMJR. The patients underwent resection of the joint or gap arthroplasty followed by TMJR using the hybrid alloplastic TMJ prosthesis. The subjective and objective variables that included the jaw function (JF), inter-incisal opening (IO), diet intake (DI) and quality of life (QoL) were assessed using the psychometric modified Likert scale. The nutritional status of the patients was evaluated using the mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) as reference. The assessed study variables demonstrated functional and observational improvement in the post-operative follow-up when compared to the pre-operative period. The patients showed an improvement in overall QoL and nutritional status post-operatively. The follow-up period showed subjective and objective improvement in the parameters assessed among the study population. There is a technical and clinical feasibility to utilize the hybrid alloplastic TMJ prosthesis as a reliable alloplastic option for treating patients requiring TMJR, with prudent indications.

Characterization of upper airway and analysis of potential risk factor associated with OSA in patients with unilateral temporomandibular ankylosis and micrognathia deformities

ObjectiveTo ascertain the airway characteristics in patients with unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis and maxilla-mandibular deformities (UTMAMD) and investigate the potential risk factors associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among UTMAMD patients. MethodsAuthors conducted a retrospective single-center study to assess and compare study group consisting of a cohort of 32 patients diagnosed with UTMAMD between January 2011 and July 2022 with control group including 54 participants. The study group was further divided into two subgroups based on the presence or absence of OSA in patients. Parameters related to the upper airway were measured and analyzed using three-dimensional reconstruction of computed tomographic scans. The measurements of airway parameters were compared between study group and control group and between two subgroups. Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify the factors associated with the presence of OSA, and a multiple variable regression model was used to identify risk factors for OSA. ResultsAirway volume (VOL), Minimum cross-section area (min CSA), mean CSA, tilt in sagittal plane (TS), and tilt in sagittal plane (TC) in velopharynx; VOL, airway length (AL), min CSA, mean CSA, TS, TC, and airway deviation (AD) in glossopharynx; min CSA, TS, and AD in hypopharynx were found difference with significance between study group and control group. Lateral dimension/anterior-posterior dimension (LAT/AP) ratio in velopharynx and min CSA, TC, and LAT/AP ratio in glossopharynx were significant different between patients with UTMAMD with OSA and without OSA. ConclusionsThe upper airway of patients with UTMAMD exhibits significant narrowing and distortion, rendering them susceptible to suffer from OSA. Patients with UTMAMD and OSA demonstrate more elliptical airways, and the glossopharyngeal LAT/AP ratio is a predictive indicator for the occurrence of OSA.

Modified Osteotomy for TMJ Ankylosis in Paediatric Patients with Deficient Interpositional Temporalis Muscle Mass and Buccal Fat Pad - A case Series and Literature Review.

Ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a bony or fibrous fusion of the articular surfaces of the mandibular condyle and the glenoid fossa. Gap arthroplasty, Interpositional arthroplasty, Condyle reconstruction with autogenic or alloplastic grafts and total joint replacement are some common modalities of management. In this article, we discuss a series of three cases of unilateral TMJ ankylosis in paediatric patients, managed by gap arthroplasty using a modified osteotomy cut. The modification was adapted due to inadequate interpositionable temporalis muscle or buccal fat on the affected side and chances of adaptive remodelling of the CCG (Costochondral graft), if placed were rendered negative.

Rehabilitation of Dentofacial Asymmetry Secondary to Unilateral Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis with Dual Distraction and Fixed Orthodontics - Stability at Three-year Follow-up.

Optimal rehabilitation of asymmetric dentofacial deformity secondary to unilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is often a challenge. The purpose of this case series is to present an insight into esthetic, occlusal and functional rehabilitation of two patients with varying degree of asymmetric Class II dentofacial deformities secondary to long-standing unilateral TMJ ankylosis. The patients were treated with one-stage surgical protocol employing simultaneous dual distraction technique along with interpositional arthroplasty. Dual distraction technique entailed the simultaneous use of two distractors which allowed for proper control of proximal condylar segment during the course of distraction and lowering the risk of ankylosis recurrence. Thereafter, comprehensive fixed orthodontic mechanotherapy involving the use of temporary anchorage devices was instituted to align and level the compensated dentition. Post-treatment records showed significant improvements in skeletal disharmony and functional stability with good functional occlusion. At the three-year follow-up, the morphological and functionally acceptable results were reasonably well-maintained, with no signs of relapse. Through the two cases reported here, we would like to highlight that one-stage concurrent arthroplasty and dual distraction technique is a safe, stable, and reliable approach for surgical and functional rehabilitation of an adult asymmetric dentofacial deformity secondary to unilateral TMJ ankylosis. Meticulously executed comprehensive orthodontic manipulations involving use of acrylic bite-blocks, elastic traction, and temporary skeletal anchorage device play a crucial role in enhancing the final occlusal outcomes.

The predictive effect of neutrophil-lymphocyte and platelet-lymphocyte ratios in the post-operative recurrence of temporomandibular joint ankylosis.

Reankylosis is a frequent pathology in patients who are operated for post-traumatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis. In the current practice, ankylosing spondylitis attacks are monitored with the increases in neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR). In this study, such a relation between TMJ reankylosis and increase in these ratios was evaluated. Patients who were operated between January 2010 and December 2019 for unilateral or bilateral TMJ ankylosis were included in this study. Temporomandibular gap arthroplasty with an interpositional silicone block was performed for each patient by the same operative team. Each patient had standard physiotherapy. All ages and genders were included in the study. Due to the complete blood count differences between children and adults, 18 years of age was used as a cutoff between the groups. A need for reoperation was accepted as reankylosis. The NLR and PLR of children without and with reankylosis and adults without and with reankylosis were compared. Twenty-nine children and 38 adults were included in the study. Mean age of the children and adults were 10.8 and 37.3 years, respectively. Eleven children and eight adults had reankylosis. In patients with reankylosis, NLR and PLR were high significantly, regardless of age. In children, PLR was significantly higher in reankylosis patients. In adults, NLR was significantly higher in reankylosis patients. PLR and NLR may be utilized for predicting reankylosis, respectively, in children and adults who were operated for ankylosis due to TMJ fractures.

Management of unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis by interpositional arthroplasty and bilateral coronoidectomy

Management of unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis by interpositional arthroplasty and bilateral coronoidectomy

SURGICAL TREATMENT OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT ANKYLOSIS WITH COSTO- CHONDRAL GRAFT APPLICATION: CASE PRESENTATION

Introduction: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a serious condition that affects the masticatory system and is referred as permanent movement disfunction of the mandible caused by bilateral or unilateral fibrous or bony adhesions leading to numerous consequences. The causes may be congenital or acquired and include trauma, arthritis, infection, neoplasms, previous TMJ surgery etc. Surgical treatment consists of extensive resection of the ankylotic mass and reconstruction of the ramus-condyle unit with autogenous or alloplastic grafts. A combination of surgical treatment and physiotherapy is usually needed in order to achieve maximum rehabilitation and functionality of the mandible. The purpose of this poster presentation is to present the surgical management of an unusual case of unilateral TMJ ankylosis and review the literature. Case report: A thirty-seven-year old male patient presented complaining of the inability to open his mouth since his birth. Clinical examination revealed congenital unilateral TMJ ankylosis. The lateral movement of the mandible was impossible. The patient was treated with resection of the ankylotic bone mass, replacement of the condyle with costo-chondral graft and replacement of articular disc with the temporal fascia. Since the surgery was completed the patient shows no signs of relapse. Conclusion: TMJ ankylosis can be congenital or acquired. Its treatment requires detailed medical history, clinical and radiographic examination. Surgical resection of the ankylotic bone and coronoid process is necessary and a graft that resembles to the ramus-condyle unit can be placed. Immediate postoperative kinesiotherapy and regular recalls are of great importance.

Management of unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis with facial asymmetry

Long-standing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis may compromise facial form and function. Treatment planning needs to address both the ankylosis and the facial deformity. A 21-year-old male patient with unilateral TMJ ankylosis of the right side with gross facial asymmetry was planned for a two-stage surgical procedure. First-stage surgery was done to release fibrous ankylosis, create a new functional joint and achieve adequate mouth opening. A vertical ramus osteotomy with superior repositioning of the proximal ramal segment and interpositional temporalis myofascial flap was done to achieve a functional joint and correct the facial height discrepancy. As the mouth opening was <35 mm, ipsilateral coronoidectomy was done and the resected coronoid process was used a graft in the mandibular angle region. 35 mm of mouth opening was achieved intraoperatively.

Transport Distraction Osteogenesis for Reconstruction of Ramus-Condyle Unit following Release of Temporomandibular Joint ankylosis

Introduction: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a structurally complex joint. TMJ deficiency and deformity can result from different causes. Ankylosis of the TMJ is considered the most common cause leading to severe form of deformity and shortening of the ramus / condyle unit which can affect both, function and esthetic and is difficult to treat. Different surgical procedures have been used to treat this deficiency, with variable degrees of success rates. Distraction osteogenesis is a well-established technique that is used to treat different maxillofacial deformities. A recent use in reconstruction of the deficiency or ramus-condyle unit is developed Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of transport distraction osteogenesis in restoring the deficient condyle/ramus unit of patients with unilateral or bilateral TMJ ankylosis to correct the resultant deformity. Materials and Methods: Ten patients with TMJ ankylosis underwent Transport condylar ramus distraction osteogenesis to reconstruct the condyle after release and gap arthroplasty. The distractors used were extraoral submerged ones. Results: Five males and five females were included. Their age ranged from 2 to 46 years with an average of 21.2years. The follow-up period ranged from 15 to 60 months with an average of 30.2 months. Successful treatment was achieved in seven cases. Complications were mild in two, moderate in four and severe in three. Conclusions: Transport condylar distraction osteogenesis is a valuable treatment option for TMJ ankylosis. It has a considerable complication rate that must be considered its choice and discussed thoroughly with the patient/guardian.

Analysis of maximum bite force and chewing efficiency in unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis cases treated with buccal fat pad interpositional arthroplasty

There is limited knowledge about masticatory function after the release of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis. In this study, masticatory function was evaluated by measuring maximum voluntary bite force (MVBF) and chewing efficiency in 30 unilateral TMJ ankylosis patients who were treated with buccal fat pad (BFP) interpositional arthroplasty. Eighteen subjects over 12 years of age were included in study Group A and 12 subjects below 12 years of age in study Group B. Patients in the study groups had completed a minimum follow up of one year after surgery. Control groups C (over 12 years of age, n = 18) and D (under 12 years of age, n = 12) consisted of age, sex, and weight-matched normal subjects. The mean MVBF was measured between occluding molar teeth with a strain gauge transducer. Chewing efficiency was measured with two different coloured chewing gum strips. These were chewed for 5, 10, 20, 30, and 50 strokes. Compared with normal subjects, the study groups (A and B) could generate 64.7% (p = 0.004*) and 89.8% (p = 0.121) of MVBF, respectively. Overall chewing efficiency was 88.7% in Group A and 92.9% in Group B (p = 0.014* and p = 0.138, respectively) when compared with normal subjects. The study has shown that BFP interpositional arthroplasty effectively restores masticatory function.

Assessment of facial nerve injury using Deep Subfascial approach to Temporo-mandibular joint

Background: Surgical access to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and zygomatic arch is a challenge even to the experienced maxillofacial surgeon. The conventional subfascial approach to these structures carries the potential risk of transient paralysis of the frontalis and orbicularis oculi muscles. The deep subfascial approach provides an additional layer of protection (the deep layer of the temporalis fascia and the superficial temporal fat pad) to the temporal and zygomatic branches of the facial nerve and thus, is the safest method to avoid facial nerve injury.
 Aims and Objective: To assess facial nerve injury (FN) following TMJ surgery using deep Subfascial approach and measuring it on House and Brackman facial nerve grading system (HBFNGS).
 Materials and Methods: A randomized study was performed from August 2013 to March 2017 on 24 patients with unilateral and bilateral TMJ ankylosis. All patients were evaluated objectively for facial nerve injury using with house and brackmann facial nerve injury grading system post-operatively and subjectively inthe various time periods, i.e. 24 hours, 1 week, 1month, 3 months and 6 months.
 Results: Brackmann facial nerve grading system at 24 hours post operatively– in the deep subfascial approach group, 91.7% of patients (23 cases) had Grade 1 injury and 8.3% (1case) had Grade 3 injury. The condition improved with time with full recovery of facial nerve injury (FN) at all surgical sites at 6 months.
 Conclusion: The deep subfascial approach has a distinct advantage over the conventional approaches when dissecting the temporal region and is thesafest method to avoid injury to facial nerve injury (FN).

TMJ Ankylosis Secondary to Gun Shot Injury: A Rare Case Report

The head and midface areas are very common site of gunshot injury.These gunshot wound generallyleads to major distortion and functional impairment, particularly when the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is affected or when major anatomical structure such as the facial nerve is damaged.Secondary complications may include mandibular displacement atmaximummouth opening and in protrusion, limited lateral movement of the jaw, limited mouth openinganterior open bite, andrarely,temporoman dibularjoint(TMJ)ankylosis.The current report describes a case of unilateral TMJ ankylosis secondary to gunshot injury, which was treated by pre-auricular approach and interpositionalarthroplasty was done using temporalis fascia under general anesthesia. Post-operative follow up was done for one year and no evidence of re-ankylosis was noted.

Comparison of unilateral rostral, middle and caudal segmental mandibulectomies as an alternative treatment for unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis in cats: an ex vivo study.

Temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) is the partial or complete inability to open the mouth due to intra- or extra-articular fibrous, bony or fibro-osseous tissue proliferation. Surgical procedures such as gap arthroplasty, condylectomy or wide extra-articular osteotomy have been recommended to treat this condition; these techniques are challenging, time-consuming and have been occasionally associated with postoperative recurrence, severe periarticular neurovascular iatrogenic trauma and death. Segmental mandibulectomy had previously been recommended as an alternative option for unilateral TMJA, but the location of mandibulectomy and extent of bone removal from the mandible region have not been mentioned in the literature. This study aimed to validate the area of the mandibular body (rostral, middle or caudal) and amount of bony tissue that should be osteotomized during a segmental mandibulectomy for treatment of unilateral TMJA in cats. In this block study, 30 cadaver heads of domestic shorthair cats were randomly divided into three groups of 10 specimens each based on the mandibular region that would undergo segmental mandibulectomy (rostral, middle and caudal). The size of the removed mandibular segment and pre- and postoperative vertical range of mandibular motion were compared for statistical purposes. A significant statistical difference was observed between the pre- and postoperative vertical range of mandibular motion between the rostral, middle and caudal segmental mandibulectomies (P <0.001). The mean postoperative recovered range of mandibular motion for the rostral, middle and caudal segmental mandibulectomies was 50.4%, 81.9% and 90.4%, respectively. The caudal segmental mandibulectomy showed the highest postoperative vertical range of mandibular motion. The removal of a minimum of 1.2 cm of the caudal mandibular body was required to achieve nearly full recovery of presurgical mouth opening in the specimens of this study. The caudal segmental mandibulectomy may eliminate the risk of iatrogenic periarticular neurovascular damage inherent to more invasive surgeries performed at the temporomandibular joint area. When performed unilaterally, the caudal segmental mandibulectomy is a viable surgical alternative that may show a similar outcome to other surgical techniques.

Longitudinal electromyographic changes in masseter and anterior temporalis muscle before and after temporomandibular joint arthroplasty in ankylosis patients

PurposeThe literature lacks evidence about activity of masseter and anterior temporalis muscles in temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate longitudinal electromyography (EMG) changes in masseter and anterior temporalis muscle before and after gap arthroplasty in unilateral TMJA patients. Specific aim was to investigate the EMG activity restoration to the level of non-ankylosed side after arthroplasty. MethodsThe investigator implemented a prospective longitudinal study amongst TMJA patients treated with gap arthroplasty. EMG of masseter and anterior temporalis were recorded bilaterally on ankylosed and non-ankylosed side. EMG signals of masseter and anterior temporalis were recorded preoperatively and 1 week, 3 month and 6 month postoperatively at rest and at maximum voluntary clench (MVC). ResultsThe study sample was composed of 16 (male:female = 1:1.28) unilateral TMJA patients. The mean duration of ankylosis was 3.25 ± 1.18 years. The difference in EMG root-mean-square (RMS) values of ankylosed side when compared to the preoperative values of non-ankylosed side was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.001) preoperatively, 1 week and 3 month postoperatively, while it was statistically not significant (p > 0.99) at 6-month postoperatively. ConclusionThe present study concludes that the TMJA patients have hyperactivity of masseter and anterior temporalis muscle. Restoring the function causes the muscle activity to progress to the values of normal side. EMG activity as measured on follow-up may be one of the predicting factor for re-ankylosis.

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT ANKYLOSIS: CASE REPORT

Ankylosis is a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pathology characterized by bone and/or fibrous union between the condyle and the glenoid fossa, restricting joint movements. The etiology of ankylosis may be related to infectious processes, local traumatology, radiotherapy, and TMJ tumors. Among the consequences are the limitation of mouth opening, limited chewing capacity, difficulty in phonation, and oral hygiene. The objective of this research was to report a clinical case of unilateral bone ankylosis of TMJ in a male patient with a history of firearm projectile aggression, which presented 3 mm of interincisal distance and was submitted to a right-sided gap arthroplasty and bilateral coronoidectomy. Satisfactory results were achieved by removing the bone ankylotic block appropriately, with excellent intraoperative joint movement, as well as for early therapeutic monitoring. The patient is being followed up in an outpatient clinic with no signs of relapse and with good oral opening.

Can costochondral grafts fulfil ramus-condyle unit reconstruction goals in children with temporomandibular joint ankylosis?

The purpose of this study was to analyse whether costochondral grafts (CCG) fulfil temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstructive goals in children with TMJ ankylosis. A total of 23 patients (12 male, 11 female, aged 3–16 years) with unilateral or bilateral TMJ ankylosis operated on between January 2014 to April 2018 were included in the study. Maximal incisal opening (MIO), frequency of reankylosis, and growth of CCG, were evaluated at one month and six months for one year, and after that once yearly. Mouth opening changes with time were assessed by the Friedman test and growth was compared at follow up and analysed using the paired t test. Mean (range) follow up was 18 (12–48) months. Study results revealed follow up MIO at 12 months was highly significant (p=0.001). Out of 27 CCG studied, only one graft had undergone re-ankylosis. Based on the predetermined criteria using condylion to gnathion (Co–Gn) measurement in the posteroanterior cephalogram, CCG were categorised into optimum, sub-optimum, and overgrowth. However, long-standing TMJ ankylosis cases still displayed mandibular asymmetry at the end of the study, even with “optimal growth” radiographically. Overall comparison between the immediate postoperative and last follow up Co-Gn measurements in either unilateral or bilateral cases was not significant. CCG with functional matrix maintained the growth of the mandible and MIO in TMJ ankylosis. It can be concluded that CCG partially fulfils reconstructive goals; however, patients need to be followed up till the end of puberty for a substantive conclusion.

Long-term effects of autogenous coronoid grafts on the facial growth of children with unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis and reconstructed mandibular condyle

Mandibular condyle injury usually results in malocclusion and disharmony of facial growth in growing children. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of autogenous coronoid grafts on the facial growth of children with unilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis who underwent mandibular condyle reconstruction. Ten growing patients with unilateral bony TMJ ankylosis admitted in West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University between January 1st, 2008 and December 31st, 2016 were followed up and evaluated. These patients include three males and seven females with ages ranging from 5 years to 12 years at the time of surgery. Each patient underwent gap arthroplasty, condyle reconstruction with ipsilateral coronoid, and interposition of the pedicled temporalis fascial flap in a single operation. The postoperative follow-up ranged from 3 years to 8 years with an average of 4.9 years. Postoperative panoramic radiographs determined the growth of the mandibular height and length on the affected side and compared it with those of the healthy side. All patients recovered uneventfully after surgery. At the end of follow-up period, the maximal mouth opening ranged from 32 mm to 41 mm with an average of 35.6 mm. Mandibular height and length continued to grow after the successful treatment of ankylosis using autogenous coronoid grafts for condyle reconstruction. However, growth deficit still existed. The final ramus height and mandibular length of the affected side at the end of follow-up increased by 25.3% (P<0.05) and 26.1% (P<0.05), respectively, compared with the initial values measured immediately after surgery. Growth rates of ramus height and mandibular length of the affected side were 47.1% and 27.2% lower (P<0.05) than those of the healthy side, respectively. Mandibular height and length continued to grow after the successful treatment of ankylosis by using autogenous coronoid grafts for condyle reconstruction. However, growth deficit still existed. The growth rate of the affected mandible was reduced compared with that of the undisturbed side even after treatment of ankylosis.

Role of Custom-Made Prosthesis for Temporomandibular Joint Replacement in Unilateral Ankylosis - An Evaluative Study.

Introduction:Ankylosis is a physically and psychologically distressing condition to a patient. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of custom-made temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prosthesis (fossa-condyle component) in patients with unilateral ankylosis in restoring the form and functions of the TMJ.Materials and Methods:This retrospective study was conducted in ten patients with unilateral TMJ ankylosis who had undergone TMJ reconstruction with custom-made TMJ prosthesis. Clinical parameters assessed were maximal mouth opening, lateral movements, improvement of the pain levels, and dietary efficiency of the patient. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 (IBM Corporation, SPSS Inc.; Chicago, IL, USA).Results:The mean preoperative mouth opening was 5.70 ± 3.62 mm. After gap arthroplasty, it was 32.50 ± 3.31 mm. The postoperative mouth opening after the reconstruction of TMJ using alloplastic joint prosthesis was 34.90 ± 2.69 mm, and after a mean follow-up period of 4 years, the mean postoperative mouth opening was 34.60 ± 2.50 mm. The mean preoperative movement toward the right and left side was 0.9 ± 1.2 mm and 1.3 ± 1.25 mm, respectively. The mean right and left lateral movements of the TMJ after reconstruction were 3.5 ± 0.97 mm and 3.70 ± 1.06 mm, respectively. There was decrease in deviation of the unaffected jaw during mouth opening and closure. Functional occlusion was maintained postoperatively. There was no appreciable change in the visual analog pain scales. The dietary efficiency improved from a scale of 10 (liquids) to a scale of 0 (no restriction to diet) in eight patients and 1 in two patients. The dietary score improved significantly after alloplastic reconstruction (P = 0.000). No evidence of facial nerve paralysis or foreign body reactions was noted in the patients during the follow-up period. Radiographic assessment revealed good positioning and adaptation of the fossa component and the condylar ramal component both postoperatively and after a mean 4-year follow-up period. There was no evidence of screw loosening or prosthesis breakage during the follow-up period.Discussion and Conclusion:The custom-made TMJ-total joint replacement (TJR) devices provide stable, improved long-term results, thereby increasing the quality of life of the patient. The custom-made alloplastic TMJ-TJR prosthesis proves to be the optimal surgical procedure to reconstruct the TMJ in comparison to the autogenous grafts (to avoid complications) in severe degenerated and ankylosed joints. However, long-term clinical and radiological studies on a larger sample size are imperative to establish the versatility of this procedure.