Functional restoration by gap arthroplasty in temporomandibular joint ankylosis: a report of 50 cases

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the cause of temporomandibular ankylosis and the long-term results of gap arthroplasty with coronoidectomy followed by immediate postoperative jaw exercises as a treatment of the condition.

Study design: This retrospective study evaluated the cause of temporomandibular joint ankylosis and the 36-month postoperative results of gap arthroplasty in 50 patients (62 joints). The patients were divided into 2 groups; group I (aged 0-12 years) consisted of 29 cases (24 unilateral and 5 bilateral; 34 joints); group II (aged 13-30 years) consisted of 21 cases (14 unilateral and 7 bilateral; 28 joints). A postoperative jaw opening exercise regimen was followed. Descriptive statistics, the Wilcoxon signed rank test, and rank sum 2-sample (Mann-Whitney) tests were applied.

Result: Trauma to the temporomandibular joint was documented as a major etiologic factor in 86% of cases. The 36-month postoperative mean maximal incisal opening was 30.62 mm (+/- 6.25 mm) for group I and 30.14 mm (+/- 3.9 mm) for group II. The P value in each group was highly significant for the Wilcoxon signed rank test; the Mann-Whitney test showed no difference between the groups, indicating that both groups had done well. The recurrence rate was 2%.

Conclusion: Trauma is the major cause of temporomandibular joint ankylosis in India. The long-term functional results of gap arthroplasty are satisfactory and comparable to those obtained through use of other treatments. Postoperative exercises play a crucial role in lasting success.