1425 Surgical Management of a Long-Standing Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation: A Case Report
Abstract Background Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation is a common presentation to Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. In most cases, the condylar head is displaced anterior to the articular eminence and can be relocated by closed reduction. Severe dislocation into the infratemporal fossa is uncommon. Long-standing dislocation is rare and makes closed reduction difficult to achieve. Presentation A 60-year-old female presented to the outpatient clinic with long-standing bilateral TMJ dislocation which onset months prior following a seizure. Both condylar heads could be palpated superior to the zygomatic arches and could not be reduced under local anaesthetic. Mandibular range of movement was severely limited and creating an oral seal was not possible, affecting speech function. There was a history of discomfort and declining oral intake. Computed tomography revealed both condyles were displaced into the infratemporal fossa. Management The patient and family expressed a desire to avoid risk of damage to the facial nerve and therefore surgery was limited to an intra-oral approach only. Closed reduction was impossible due to the degree of muscle fibrosis present. Bilateral coronoidectomies were performed under a short general anaesthetic which immediately improved range of movement. Full articulation and occlusion were achieved by performing bilateral condylotomies. Outcome The patient was reviewed by video consultation 2 weeks later and had recovered well. They reported good masticatory function and improved dietary intake. No additional physiotherapy or surgical input was required, and they have been discharged from further review.