Comparison of Gap Arthroplasty With and Without a Temporalis Muscle Flap for the Treatment of Ankylosis

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare gap arthroplasty with and without a temporalis muscle flap for the treatment of ankylosis.

Materials and Methods

Sixteen patients with temporomandibular joint ankylosis from 2001 to 2006 were included in the study, of which 7 were female and 9 were male. Fourteen patients had unilateral ankylosis and 2 patients had bilateral ankylosis. Sixteen patients were divided into 2 groups with 8 patients in each group. In group I patients, gap arthroplasty was performed with a mean follow-up of 20.3 months and in group II patients, interpositional arthroplasty with temporalis myofacial flap was performed with a mean follow-up of 23.1 months. All patients were assessed for mouth opening, diet consistency, and weight postoperatively. All patients were subjected to postoperative mouth opening exercises from the second postoperative day.

Results

There is no significant difference in postoperative mouth opening, diet consistency, and weight of the patients in both groups. Reankylosis occurred in 1 patient in both groups.

Conclusions

We conclude that there is no significant difference in maximal interincisal opening, diet scores, and weight of the patients in both groups. The overall outcome of the treatment depends on patient cooperation, active physiotherapy, and regular follow-up.