Peter Donkor1, Alex Oti Acheampong. 1. Oral and Maxillofacial Unit, Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Sciences and Technology, PMB, KNUST Post Office, Kumasi, Ghana. petadonkor@yahoo.com
Abstract
PURPOSE: This report seeks to demonstrate a technique for treating recurrent ankylosis of the mandible by creating a functional false joint at a level distal to the original joint. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study involving patients treated between 1999 and 2003. Under general anaesthesia the ramus was exposed via a submandibular approach and a block of bone was removed from it inferior to the sigmoid notch. Temporary intermaxillary fixation was applied. A costochondral graft was interposed between the resected ends of bone and secured with mini-plates. Postoperatively intermaxillary fixation was maintained for 3 days after which the jaw was actively mobilized. RESULTS: The technique was used in the treatment of six patients with recurrent ankylosis of the mandible ranging in age from 9 to 38 years. Follow-up was between 1 and 4 years. All the patients had a satisfactory interincisal opening ranging from 25 to 35 mm. CONCLUSION: The technique does not require the exposure of the ankylosed joint proper but instead creates a false and functional joint at a lower level. It also permits lengthening and advancement of the mandible.
PURPOSE: This report seeks to demonstrate a technique for treating recurrent ankylosis of the mandible by creating a functional false joint at a level distal to the original joint. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study involving patients treated between 1999 and 2003. Under general anaesthesia the ramus was exposed via a submandibular approach and a block of bone was removed from it inferior to the sigmoid notch. Temporary intermaxillary fixation was applied. A costochondral graft was interposed between the resected ends of bone and secured with mini-plates. Postoperatively intermaxillary fixation was maintained for 3 days after which the jaw was actively mobilized. RESULTS: The technique was used in the treatment of six patients with recurrent ankylosis of the mandible ranging in age from 9 to 38 years. Follow-up was between 1 and 4 years. All the patients had a satisfactory interincisal opening ranging from 25 to 35 mm. CONCLUSION: The technique does not require the exposure of the ankylosed joint proper but instead creates a false and functional joint at a lower level. It also permits lengthening and advancement of the mandible.