Treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction by intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy

The purpose of this study was to determine if the intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy is an effective treatment for anterior disk displacements with reduction and associated temporomandibular joint pain and dysfunction. Success with this procedure was predicated on producing a more functional articular disk-condyle relationship by anterior and inferior repositioning of the condyle. The prospective study was undertaken of nine (eight female and one male) patients (mean age of 25.8 years) with anterior disk displacement with reduction and associated temporomandibular joint pain and dysfunction (mean duration of pain of 6.8 years). History, clinical dysfunction, and pain indices were used to determine the frequency and severity of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The incidence of ear pain, muscle fatigue, tinnitus, headaches, and clicking was also assessed. The severity of the pain experience in the masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joints was evaluated through the use of a pain index. The severity of the pain experience and temporomandibular joint dysfunction in all of the patients was significantly reduced or totally eliminated during the period of followup. Surgical treatment of anterior disk displacement with reduction by intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy resulted in improved temporomandibular joint function and resolution of symptoms.