20-year follow-up study of disc repositioning surgery for temporomandibular joint internal derangement.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to assess the outcomes of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc repositioning as a surgical treatment for TMJ internal derangement (ID). MATERIALS AND METHODS By retrospective chart review, all patients who had TMJ disc repositioning for treatment of TMJ ID from 1984 to 1990 were identified. Attempts were made to locate these patients, and they were sent a TMJ questionnaire. The questionnaire provided subjective (pain and diet consistency) and objective (mandibular function) data. RESULTS The chart review yielded 153 patients. Complete TMJ questionnaires were obtained from 18 patients (36 joints). Analysis of data showed a reduction in pain scores, an improvement in diet consistency, and an increase in mandibular range of motion. The majority (94%) reported an improvement in quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Outcome data presented show that TMJ disc repositioning is an effective and successful surgical treatment for TMJ ID. This success has been maintained for 20 years in this specific patient population.