Simultaneous otoplasty and temporomandibular arthroplasty

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) requires surgical access, often through postauricular incisions.
• Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is frequently performed for aesthetic or reconstructive purposes.
• Combining procedures can potentially reduce operating time and patient recovery burden.

Observation:

• A modified postauricular incision allows simultaneous access for both TMJ arthroplasty and standard otoplasty.
• This approach was evaluated in six patients undergoing combined procedures.
• Follow-up extended to at least two years post-surgery.

Findings:

• The simultaneous surgical approach demonstrated stable and satisfactory aesthetic results.
• No patient experienced morbidity or complications directly related to the combined procedure.
• The modified incision technique effectively facilitated both surgeries.

Implications:

• This combined surgical technique offers a viable option for patients needing both TMJ and otoplasty.
• It may lead to improved patient outcomes by reducing the number of surgical interventions.
• Further research could explore the long-term efficacy and broader applicability of this combined approach.