Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Biotribological Testing and Analysis of Articular Cartilage Sliding against Metal for Implants
Published on: May 14, 2020
[Metallic condylar head prostheses to replace the temporomandibular joint]
O Driemel1, R S R Buch, R Dammer
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Mund-, Kiefer- und Gesichtschirurgie, Universität Regensburg.
Background:
Up to now the results after condylar reconstruction of the mandible have been regarded as less than satisfactory.
Purpose:
Functional and aesthetic long-term results after condylar head resection in traumatic and tumour cases with or without replacement by a metallic condylar head prosthesis were compared in a retrospective study.
Patients And Methods:
From 1980 to 2001, 23 temporomandibular joints of 19 patients were reconstructed with metallic condylar head prostheses. The resected region, the contralateral joint, facial and masticatory muscles and the dental system were clinically and radiographically monitored for a mean period of 4 years and 9 months. Seven patients who underwent condylar resection without substitution were observed over an average follow-up time of 7 years and 11 months.
Results:
Patients who underwent condylar resection without substitution reported more trouble with eating and speaking for a long time. TMJ endoprostheses preserved facial symmetry better. Maximum mandibular opening as well as lateral and protrusive excursions were slightly reduced in comparison with both unaffected controls and patients who underwent condylar resection without substitution. In this study bilateral condylar prostheses exhibited the same functional and aesthetic results as unilateral arthroplasty.
Conclusions:
Metallic condylar head prostheses originally developed for temporary replacement worked in some cases as long-term joint replacement but were not able to reach the total functional quality of natural temporomandibular joints.
