THE ROLE OF MANDIBULAR DISTRACTION OSTEOGENESIS IN TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT ANKYLOSIS

Abstract

Temporomandibular joint ankylosis is one of the disabling complains, where there is a chronic limitation, immobilization of mandibular condyle, or consolidation of the joint. Condyler damage due to ankylosis during growing period can produce functional and aesthetic alteration, secondary mandibular hypoplasia and soft tissue effects. In determining method of management ofT.M.J. ankylosis associated with mandibular hypoplasia we should consider the followings: age of the patient, etiological case, and duration of ankylosis. The management of this complain should aim at release ofT.M.J ankylosis, restoring mandibular length and growth, increasing mouth opening abilities, and improving aesthetics. To fulfill all these goals simultaneous distraction osteogenesis with arthroplasty appeared as a new developing line of management. This study was conducted for the purpose of clinical evaluation of this method of surgical treatment in five cases complaining of T.M.J ankylosis associated with hypoplasia (four were unilateral, and one was bilateral T.M.J. ankylosis).