Spontaneous temporomandibular joint herniation into the external auditory canal: a case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Objectives: Case report of a man presenting with spontaneous temporomandibular joint (TMJ) herniation into the external auditory canal (EAC).

Study design: Case report and literature review.

Methods: A case report of a patient with spontaneous TMJ herniation into the EAC is presented.

Results: The patient was a 41-year-old man complaining of tinnitus in his right ear. Examination revealed that the anterior wall of the bony EAC moved backward when the patient's mouth was closed and forward when opened, causing the resultant discomfort. In this case, surgery was performed, resulting in a good outcome with no complications. Thirteen other cases of spontaneous TMJ herniation into the EAC were found in the literature.

Conclusion: Few cases of spontaneous TMJ herniation into the EAC have been reported; however, if surgical treatment is desired, we should comply with the patient's request.