Modified Condylar Distraction Osteogenesis via Single Preauricular Incision for Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis with facial asymmetry is still controversial to deal with. This study describes a modified condylar distraction osteogenesis protocol via preauricular approach for the treatment of this condition.From 2006 to 2013, 18 patients with TMJ ankylosis were enrolled. The Wuhan TMJ Ankylosis treatment protocol includes as follows: (1) preauricular approach is the only surgical access; (2) TMJ arthroplasty is used to recontour the condylar head, and the vertical height of condyle is maintained; (3) distractor placement with distractor port exiting via preauricular incision; (4) distraction after 5 to 7 days of latency period with 0.5 mm twice daily; and (5) distractor removal after 3-month consolidation through preauricular incision. All patients had clinical follow-up and detailed examination.All patients had satisfactory results postoperatively. The mean (range) mouth opening increased from 7.1 (0-18) to 32.1 (28-43) mm during 37 (6-81) months of follow-up period (P0.01). Facial asymmetry was corrected in all patients, and all patients had minimal postoperative scar perception of the preauricular incision.The Wuhan TMJ ankylosis protocol provides a safe and effective treatment alternative in managing TMJ ankylosis, especially in young women who are anxious about perceptive extraoral scar.