[Temporomandibular joint prostheses].

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• End-stage temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pathology, including arthritis, trauma, and ankylosis, causes debilitating pain and limited mouth opening.
• TMJ prostheses are indicated for anatomical modifications to restore joint function and alleviate pain.
• Despite past controversies, TMJ prosthetic replacement is increasingly common due to good functional results and low morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status and advances in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prostheses.
• To highlight the role of 3D printing in improving TMJ prosthesis design.
• To discuss the indications for TMJ prosthetic replacement.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prostheses.
• Analysis of technological advancements, particularly 3D printing, in prosthesis design.
• Evaluation of clinical outcomes and indications for TMJ replacement surgery.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prosthesis design have been achieved, notably through 3D printing.
• Prosthetic replacement offers good functional outcomes and low morbidity for end-stage TMJ disease.
• Current indications for TMJ prostheses are well-established, with potential for expansion.

Conclusions:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prostheses are a viable option for managing severe TMJ pathologies.
• Technological innovations, like 3D printing, are enhancing the efficacy and applicability of TMJ prostheses.
• Further clarification and potential expansion of indications for TMJ prostheses are warranted.