Resection of the disc and suspension of the lateral wall with the temporal fascia in advanced internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint

Abstract

The abnormal relation between the disc, the condyle, and the temporal bone indicates internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint. The primary symptoms and findings are: limited and painful opening of the jaw, preauricular pain, and clicking sounds or crepitus. We operated on 11 patients admitting for advanced temporomandibular dysfunction. The abnormally stretched disc was tightened by resection of a wedge of tissue from the posterior of the disc and suturing of the edges. A pedicled flap of temporal fascia was turned on to the joint and its surroundings to mimic a lateral joint capsule. All patients were satisfied with the results as they had less pain and improved mouth opening. The procedures provided satisfactory symptomatic relief and supportive findings.