Unrecognized Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation After Intubation, A Case Report

Endotracheal intubation is a commonly performed procedure in airway management, particularly during surgical interventions, with most complications involving immediate airway compromise or hemodynamic instability. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation, however, represents a rare and often under-recognized complication during this procedure.

We present the case of a 65-year-old female who developed anterior TMJ dislocation after undergoing elective cosmetic surgery requiring endotracheal intubation. She presented to the emergency department the following day with persistent jaw pain and inability to close her mouth, impairing oral intake. Imaging confirmed anterior dislocation of the left TMJ, which was successfully reduced at bedside using an extra-oral reduction technique, leading to symptom resolution. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: This case underscores the importance of incorporating post-extubation assessments that include evaluation for jaw and oral complaints and maintaining clinical suspicion for TMJ dislocation when patients present with jaw dysfunction after intubation.