Treatment modalities of TMJ ankylosis: experience in Delta Nile, Egypt

The study reports the authors' experience in managing TMJ ankylosis in Delta Nile, Egypt (1995-2006) and compares the surgical modalities used. 101 patients (109 joints) were reviewed in this retrospective study. Pre- and postoperative assessment included history, radiological and physical examination, and mouth opening. Age, sex, aetiology, joint(s) affected, surgical modality, complications and follow up periods were evaluated. Various types (fibrous, fibro-osseous and bony) of TMJ ankylosis were diagnosed; trauma was the commonest aetiology. The patients' age range was 2-41 years, 62% were female, and the follow up period ranged from 14 to 96 months. Average mouth opening was significantly increased from 5.3mm pre-operatively to 32.9 mm 12 months postoperatively (P=0.0001). Marked improvement in mouth opening was documented when the ramus-joint complex was reconstructed using distraction osteogenesis (34.7 mm), costochondral graft (34.4mm) and Surgibone (34.6mm). Gap arthroplasty showed least satisfactory mouth opening compared with other techniques (P=0.001). Minor and major complications were encountered in 33% of cases, including 5% recurrence rate. Early release of TMJ ankylosis; reconstruction of the ramus height with distraction osteogenesis or bone grafting combined with interpositional arthroplasty, followed by vigorous physiotherapy is successful for managing TMJ ankylosis.