Autogenous auricular cartilage graft in temporomandibular joint ankylosis--an evaluation.

PURPOSE: Recurrence is a major problem after release of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of autogenous auricular cartilage graft as an interposition material after arthroplasty for TMJ ankylosis.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Ten patients (M = 4; F = 6) with TMJ ankylosis were treated with autogenous auricular cartilage graft interposition arthroplasty. Minimal follow-up was 2 years. The possible reasons for ankylosis and pre- and postoperative mouth opening at final follow-up were recorded.

RESULTS

There was a single case of bilateral ankylosis, and a total of 11 joints were operated. The cause of ankylosis could be traced to trauma (n = 7) and ear infection (n = 3). The ages at operation ranged from 6 to 23 years. Postoperative mouth opening was satisfactory in all patients except one in whom relapse occurred. No donor site deformity was observed in any of the patients.

CONCLUSION

Autogenous auricular cartilage graft is a good interposition material for successful treatment of TMJ ankylosis.