Assessment of two Different Disc Stabilization Techniques in the Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Internal Derangement

Abstract

This study was performed to evaluate the Mitek mini anchor as a means of fixation and stabilization of the TMJ disc in cases of ID and compare between Mitek mini anchor and disc plication for disc repositioning and stabilization both clinically and by TMJ imaging. This study was carried out on 16 patients (24 joints); 3 males and 13 females with mean age 24.8 years manifesting closed lock of TMJ. The preoperative MRI was done for confirmation of the clinical diagnosis. The patients were divided into 2 groups. Each group included 8 patients. In group I, Mitek mini anchor was used for TMI disc repositioning and stabilization. While, in group II, disc plication was performed for disc repositioning and stabilization. The TMJ was approached via endaural incision. All the patients were followed up clinically and by using MRI at 3 and 9 month intervals postoperatively. The clinical results revealed obvious improvements m both subjective and objective symptoms, following surgical manipulation of the cases. Postoperative MRI showed that there were improvements in disc position after surgical procedures in some cases. While in the other cases, MRI revealed that there was no change in disc position.