Ankylosis of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Update and its treatment

Abstract

In dentistry, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a rare pathology where no consensus of global population data has been found and therefore has presented a challenge for professionals, since there are no treatment sequence protocols standardized. The objective is to carry out a literature review and update of the diagnosis of ankylosis, considering its clinical characteristics, classification, etiology, and epidemiology. Giving special emphasis to the types of treatments used and concluding that GAP interpositional arthroplasty and TMJ reconstruction arthroplasty would be the best options to improve maximum oral opening in a patient with ankylosis, thus allowing him to recover function and aesthetics.

Is Gap Arthroplasty Sufficient in TMJ Ankylosis: Our Experience

“…It is often referred to as a bird face deformity or Andy gump appearance because of the convex facial profile. 3 In the present study, we used the procedure of gap arthroplasty paired with active aggressive jaw physiotherapy as a therapeutic modality and discovered that it has a high success rate.…”

“…As a result, the mandible's vertical, sagittal, and transverse orientations may alter on the afflicted side, with altered craniofacial growth and development. 3 A detailed pre-operative examination and severity of the deformity is crucial for effectively treating ankylosis. 4 TMJ ankylosis treatment options are condylectomy, gap arthroplasty (GA), interpositional (IGA), coronoidectomy, and complete restoration or replacement.…”

“…As a result, the mandible’s vertical, sagittal, and transverse orientations may alter on the afflicted side, with altered craniofacial growth and development. 3…”

Surgical management of temporomandibular joint ankylosis with mersilene mesh interpositional arthroplasty: A case series study

“…Bilateral ankylosis causes an inability to open the mouth with a gradual decrease in the interincisal opening and may lead to severe micrognathia, malocclusion, poor oral hygiene, etc. [ 1 ]…”

“…In addition, TMJ ankylosis can also cause facial and mandibular growth disorders, causing facial asymmetry, particular in children during their growth and development. [ 1 ] Some of the factors that can cause TMJ ankylosis include the following: trauma, chronic TMJ disease, inflammation of the TMJ, TMJ’s prior surgery history and autoimmune diseases. The first sign is the increasing limitation of jaw opening, usually noticed by the dentist.…”