Recurrence-Related Factors of Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis: A 10-Year Experience

Abstract

Purpose: The treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis can be challenging for surgeons because of technical difficulties and a high incidence of recurrence. In the present study, we reviewed the data from patients with TMJ ankylosis during a 10-year period and explored the risk factors for recurrence.

Materials and methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted to review the data from patients with TMJ ankylosis from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2015. The predictor variables were age, TMJ ankylosis classification, and treatment method. The primary outcome variable was the recurrence rate of TMJ ankylosis during follow-up. The χ² test or Fisher exact test was performed to analyze the differences in the recurrence rate.

Results: A total of 130 patients (59 females and 71 males; age, 3 to 67 years) were included in the present study. All the patients were divided into 3 groups according to their age. The rate of joint reankylosis among the children was 19.1%, which was significantly greater than that of the adults (7.3%; P < .05). In the adults, the joint was reconstructed using a coronoid process graft (CPG), distraction osteogenesis, or prosthesis implantation for type III. Among these treatments, CPG resulted in the greatest recurrence rate (26.7%).

Conclusions: Children with ankylosis were found to be more prone to recurrence compared with adults. TMJ ankylosis was also more likely to recur in adults undergoing reconstruction with a CPG.