Concomitant Temporomandibular Joint Replacement and Orthognathic Surgery

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders significantly impact the stability of surgical treatments for dentofacial deformities.
• Addressing TMJ disorders is crucial for achieving optimal and long-lasting outcomes in patients with skeletal discrepancies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the indications, preoperative evaluation, staging, sequencing, and surgical considerations for alloplastic temporomandibular joint replacement (TMJR) in patients with dentofacial deformities.
• To highlight TMJR combined with orthognathic surgery as a standard approach for end-stage TMJ disease and DFDs.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and established surgical protocols.
• Discussion of the comprehensive approach integrating TMJR and orthognathic surgery.
• Analysis of treatment planning and surgical considerations for complex TMJ disorders and DFDs.

Main Results:

• Alloplastic TMJR combined with orthognathic surgery provides predictable, stable, and excellent outcomes.
• This combined approach addresses both functional and aesthetic aspects comprehensively.
• Improved treatment planning and successful patient outcomes are achieved through understanding the utilization of TMJR in conjunction with orthognathic surgery.

Conclusions:

• Alloplastic TMJR and orthognathic surgery represent a standard of care for severe TMJ disorders with associated dentofacial deformities.
• Careful preoperative evaluation and strategic sequencing are essential for successful outcomes.
• This integrated surgical approach offers a comprehensive solution for complex patient conditions.