TM Joint Ankylosis

Ankylosis refers to the fibrous or bony fusion between the condyle and fossa, which is also caused by a condylar fracture. Traumatic Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Ankylosis typically develops before 10 years of age.

Although TMJ ankylosis most often results from trauma or infection, it can be congenital or from Rheumatoid Arthritis. Chronic, painless restriction of mouth opening takes place. It can later lead to facial asymmetry also. Diagnosis is made on Pan tomograms (OPG) and 3-D, CT Scans.

Surgical treatment for ankylosis involves condylectomy followed by Jaw exercises for months or years. A silastic spacer (implant) is often placed between the bone ends after condylectomy to prevent re-ankylosis.

Facial asymmetry, if present, also requires surgical correction in a separate stage either by osteotomies or by the bone distraction process.