Overview
A patient-specific or stock implant affixed to the temporal bone that provides a reconstructed articulating surface for the condylar head. Creates more freedom of movement for the joint.
Indications
Inflammatory arthritis of the TMJ or recurrent fibrosis/bony ankylosis not responsive to treatment. Failed autogenous tissue graft or failed alloplastic joint reconstruction. Disc displacement with moderate to severe pain or disabling dysfunction and has not responded to less invasive, conventional therapy.
Precautions
There are instances when this technique is not recommended due to prior surgical procedures and the need to place prostheses in less than optimal angles and positions, or in cases where systemic medical disease would contraindicate this implant procedure in the view of the operating surgeon.