Temporomandibular joint trauma and disability assessment - A longitudinal exploratory study

Area of Science:

• Forensic Medicine
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Orofacial trauma affects facial, dental, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) structures.
• Understanding TMJ trauma and disorders is crucial for medico-legal evaluations.
• The TMJ is a complex joint susceptible to injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present epidemiological data on TMJ injuries and sequelae.
• To provide a medico-legal approach to TMJ disability assessment.
• To analyze the relationship between TMJ injury and its long-term consequences.

Main Methods:

• An observational, longitudinal, exploratory study.
• Data collected from the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Portugal (2000-2017).
• Statistical analysis included Fisher's exact test, Binomial test, and Goodman and Kruskal's test (P<0.05).

Main Results:

• 2622 orofacial trauma reports analyzed, with 234 TMJ injuries and 149 TMJ sequelae.
• A statistically significant association was found between TMJ injury and TMJ sequela (λ=0.170).
• No significant association between TMJ injury/sequelae and professional status or etiology was identified.

Conclusions:

• TMJ sequelae are less common than injuries, indicating most heal without compensation or healthcare costs.
• The link between TMJ injury and sequelae underscores the importance of preventive measures.
• Preventive strategies are particularly relevant for TMJ trauma in physical violence contexts and for medico-legal purposes.