Clinical Indications for Simultaneous TMJ and Orthognathic Surgery

Abstract

There are many temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions that can cause pain, TMJ and jaw dysfunction, and disability. The most common of these conditions include: 1. articular disk dislocation; 2. reactive arthritis; 3. adolescent internal condylar resorption; 4. condylar hyperplasia; 5. osteochondroma or osteoma; and 6. end-stage TMJ pathology. These conditions are often associated with dentofacial deformities, malocclusion, TMJ pain, headaches, myofascial pain, TMJ and jaw functional impairment, ear symptoms, etc. Patients with these conditions may benefit from corrective surgical intervention. Open joint surgery provides direct access to the TMJ allowing manipulation, repair, removal and/or reconstruction of the anatomical structures that cannot be accomplished by other treatment methods. TMJ surgery and orthognathic surgery can be predictably performed during one operation with high success rates. This paper discusses the most common TMJ pathologies and presents the surgical management considerations to correct the specific TMJ conditions and associated jaw deformities.

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Larry M. Wolford

Dr. Larry M. Wolford is a clinical professor at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University System. He maintains a private practice at Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.