Management of recurrent ankylosis in arthrogryposis: new solutions to a rare problem

Arthrogryposis is a rare condition that comprises contracture of the joints, muscular weakness, and fibrosis. Restricted mouth opening caused by coronoid hyperplasia has been reported but to our knowledge, ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) has not. Standard management of ankylosis includes creation of a gap arthroplasty and possible reconstruction with autogenous or alloplastic materials. We describe management of a patient with arthrogryposis who developed ankylosis for a second time after satisfactory gap arthroplasty and total replacement of the TMJ with a custom-made prosthesis. The original prosthesis was removed, the ankylosis resected, and the prosthesis replaced. This has given an excellent outcome at 12 months.