A Case of Bilateral Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis

Several methods of condylectomy have been recommended for temporomandibular joint ankylosis, but prognosis was not always favorable by re-ankylosis. The patient was a 53-year-old woman with bilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis (right side: bony union, left side: fibrous union) of 40 years duration. We perfomed condylectomy by inserting between the debrided mandibular fossa and amputated part of the ramus an artifical metal condyle (A-O process: ART245-62) to prevent re-ankylosis. Pre-operative maximum jaw opening was only 3 mm, but post-operative jaw opening improved 15 mm, then after post operative functional and physical therapy, it gained 20 mm. This was maintained for 2-5 years to the present. However, muscular and surrounding soft tissue atrophy prevented complete opening of the jaw.