Clinical guidelines for total temporomandibular joint replacement.

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Total joint replacement (TJR) is a surgical option for end-stage temporomandibular joint (TMJ) diseases.
• TMJ TJR significantly improves patient quality of life, enhancing diet, speech, and social interaction.
• The TMJ TJR system received regulatory approval in Japan in 2019, allowing clinical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the benefits of TMJ TJR for functional and aesthetic reconstruction.
• To underscore the challenges and risks associated with TMJ TJR surgery.
• To inform the development of clinical guidelines for patient selection in TMJ TJR.

Main Methods:

• Review of the clinical application and implications of TMJ TJR.
• Analysis of the impact of TMJ TJR on patient quality of life.
• Discussion on the need for specialized surgical expertise and patient selection criteria.

Main Results:

• TMJ TJR demonstrates promise in restoring function and aesthetics in the maxillofacial region.
• The procedure is associated with significant improvements in mastication, speech, and social engagement.
• The complexity and risks necessitate careful patient selection for successful outcomes.

Conclusions:

• TMJ TJR is a valuable treatment for advanced TMJ disorders, improving patient well-being.
• Prudent patient selection is paramount due to the demanding nature of the surgery.
• Collaborative efforts are underway to establish clinical guidelines for TMJ TJR in Japan.