Interpositional arthroplasty with temporal muscle flap – a surgical alternative for condylar ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint

Ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is characterized by a bony or fibrous fusion between articular fossa and condyle. It represents one greatest therapeutic challenges in oral maxillofacial surgery. Several treatments have been used for its management, such as gap arthroplasty, interpositional TMJ reconstruction with autogenous bone graft alloplastic prostheses. A 39-year-old Black male patient developed complex mandibular symphysis fracture associated bilateral high condylar fractures after motorcycle accident. In first approach, osteosynthesis was performed to reduce fix conservatively treat condyles. However, did not proceed physiotherapy adequate follow-up, evolving into ankylosis. Subsequently, he underwent arthroplasty temporal muscle flap. The treatment ankylosis imperatively surgical aims release reanatomize region, restoring functionality stomatognathic system. choice technique depends on many factors, including age. children, most frequent because it helps centrality growth. adult patients, interposition eligible, restores function reduces recurrence consequent re-ankylosis.