Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to inculcate a newer, deeper understanding of TMJ Ankylosis– both from the pathological as well as the clinical view point. Newer classifications may now determine surgical procedures. Interpositional materials may not be just soft tissues interposed between the cut ends, but also hard tissues forming the new Ramus Condyle Unit (RCU). Facial deformity may be recognized to be as important as inability to open the mouth; more so, if accompanied by Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Multi-staged treatment plans of release first followed by asymmetry correction may be replaced by single staged joint replacement & total facial aesthetic as well as functional rehabilitation. Finally, the importance of unfavorable events in TMJ Ankylosis surgery may be recognized, which would lead to better results in terms of treatment goals, i.e. to restore joint function, improve facial appearance & airway issues, correct malocclusion & re-establish harmony between the TMJ, the face and the teeth.

Navigating Complexity in Mandibular Condyle Aplasia and Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis in a Five-Year-Old Child: A Case Report

“…In our case, the external appearance suggested right-sided mandibular hypoplasia; however, the associated left-sided TMJ ankylosis caused the jaw to be pulled towards the left side, creating the illusion of hypoplasia on the right side. This observation underscores the importance of comprehensive clinical assessment and radiographic evaluation in determining the true nature of mandibular abnormalities [ 17 ].…”

Orthomorphic surgery for correction of mandibular dysmorphology post TMJ ankylosis - A report of 4 cases and review of literature

“…After that, the fragment is positioned to address the anteroposterior and midline deficit. Patients with a normal ramus dimension, functional occlusion, insufficient/ standard posterior airway space, or unilateral ankylosis may benefit from orthomorphic osteotomies 3 .…”

Managing Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis Concurrent With Extrahepatic Portal Vein Obstruction: A Report of a Rare Case and Literature Review Investigating the Hypercoagulability Link

“…Although there is a lack of comprehensive studies on the prevalence of TMJA at various geographic levels, Gupta et al found a prevalence of 0.46 per 1000 among three to 15-year-olds in rural and urban areas of Lucknow, India, in 2012 [ 1 ]. TMJA can manifest at any age, resulting in restricted mouth opening and facial asymmetry [ 2 ]. The prognosis is seen to be negatively correlated with the number of years with TMJA.…”