Eminectomy for the treatment of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation

Several techniques have been used to treat chronic dislocation of the mandible. Most of these techniques represent attempts at reducing the mobility of the TMJ. The eminectomy procedure is an attempt at restoring normal joint function without reducing mobility of the joint. We have presented two cases of chronic dislocation of the mandible that were treated successfully by removal of the articular tubercle and the lateral portion of the temporal bone. Although surgery of the TMJ area may be hazardous if approached without caution, we feel that the complications associated with this procedure are minimized if adequate care is taken in flap design and tissue dissection. On the basis of the excellent results of the eminectomy procedures reported in the literature and of our own experience with this procedure, we feel that this is the preferred treatment for chronic dislocation of the mandible.