Outcomes of Surgical Management of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction - A Single Surgeon's Experience

Abstract

Title: Outcomes of surgical management of temporomandibular joint dysfunction - a single surgeon's experience Introduction: Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is a term used for a range of pathologies affecting the temporomandibular joint. The initial management is generally conservative, however in a group of patients this does not alleviate the symptoms of persistent pain, joint sounds, and limitation of mouth opening. Surgical treatment is an alternative treatment modality. Surgical planning is based on the clinical and radiological findings. Material(s) and Method(s):s: All patients undergoing surgery (arthroscopy, arthrocentesis, arthroplasty, discopexy) for temporomandibular joint dysfunction over a one year period were selected. The following assessments were carried out pre- and post-operatively: pain score, patient-assessed symptoms questionnaire, and mouth opening. Post-operative surgical complications were also recorded. Result(s): A total of twenty-eight surgical procedures were recorded. At the three month post-operative interval, there was an improvement in all criteria assessed. There were no cases of permanent facial nerve damage. Conclusion(s): Surgical management of temporomandibular joint dysfunction is an effective treatment method in patients where conservative management is not successful. Overall patients report a significant improvement in pain score, mouth opening, and patient-assessed TMJ-related symptoms, with no permanent facial nerve damage. The long-term benefits of surgery need to be studied further.Copyright © 2025