The use of TMJ Concepts prostheses to reconstruct patients with major temporomandibular joint and mandibular defects

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstruction may be required in complex cases in which there are additional mandibular or zygomatic arch defects. The reconstructive options include autogenous tissue, alloplastic material, or combinations of these. The authors describe 4 cases in which TMJ reconstruction was performed with TMJ Concepts customized joint prostheses. The prosthetic components were designed to restore major defects in the zygomatic arch and the mandibular ramus and body, including one case in which the mandibular component was used to restore total mandibular continuity. The prosthetic components used in these cases provided excellent anatomical reconstruction, and were a viable treatment option in cases in which the pathological process made autogenous grafts unsuitable. The prostheses have been functioning for up to 6 years. In one case a revision operation was required because the lack of a pterygomasseteric sling resulted in the condyle dropping out of the fossa. The authors' clinical experience with these cases suggests that a customized prosthesis combined with TMJ reconstruction can be a reliable treatment alternative for bridging complex, major maxillo-mandibular defects.