Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Volume 66, Issue 4 , Pages 718-723, April 2008

Distraction Osteogenesis for Temporomandibular Joint Reconstruction

  • Harry C. Schwartz, DMD, MD

      Affiliations

    • Chief of Maxillofacial Surgery, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, and Adjunct Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA.
    • Corresponding Author InformationAddress correspondence and reprint requests to Dr Schwartz: 4900 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027
    • ,
  • Robert J. Relle, DDS

      Affiliations

    • Attending Surgeon, Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, and Lecturer in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA.

Purpose

This clinical study evaluated the use of transport distraction osteogenesis in reconstruction of the ramus–condyle unit (RCU) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Patients and Methods

Thirteen TMJ reconstructions were carried out in 12 patients. Diagnoses included tumors, trauma, ankylosis, and degenerative joint disease. The follow-up period has ranged from 7 to 59 months.

Results

Successful distraction was carried out in all cases, with development of solid regenerate bone and an effective new articulation. There were no complications. A good functional level was achieved in all cases. One patient with bilateral rheumatoid arthritis has experienced ongoing degenerative changes in the reconstructed condyles, with reappearance of an anterior open bite. The occlusion has remained stable in all other cases.

Conclusions

Distraction osteogenesis is a promising treatment option in reconstruction of the RCU of the TMJ.

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PII: S0278-2391(07)02121-0

doi:10.1016/j.joms.2007.11.016

Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Volume 66, Issue 4 , Pages 718-723, April 2008

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