Silicone vs temporalis fascia interposition in TMJ ankylosis: A comparison.

OBJECTIVE: Temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJa) is a distressing condition, but can be surgically managed by gap or interpositional arthroplasty, with an aim to restore joint function and prevent re-ankylosis. The aim of this paper is to compare two interposition materials used in management of TMJ ankylosis.

METHODS: 15 patients with TMJa were randomly allocated to two groups: group A (n = 6), interposition material used was medical-grade silicon elastomer, and group B (n = 9) where the interposition material used was temporalis fascia. Patients were followed up at regular intervals of 1 and 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months and were assessed on following parameters: pain by VAS Scale, maximal mouth opening (MMO), implant rejection, and recurrence.

RESULTS: The results showed a loss of 4.6% and 7.9% in maximal interincisal mouth opening at 3rd and 6th months in Group A while Group B had a mean loss of 9% and 10% at 3rd and 6th months respectively without any significant difference. None of our cases showed recurrence or implant rejection.

CONCLUSION: We conclude that silicone is comparable to temporalis fascia in terms of stability, surgical ease, and adaptability. It not only restores the function of mandible and ensures good maximum interincisal opening but also maintains the vertical ramal height. Also, it requires less operating time and is easy to handle but is not economical. It might be an effective way to restore function and prevent re-ankylosis.