AIM: In order to evaluate the reliability of interpositional gap arthroplasty with temporalis myofascial flap the authors retrospectively analysed the data of 5 patients suffering from bilateral temporomandibular ankylosis operated on with this technique. METHODS: The preoperative assessment included evaluation of pain during function, interference with eating and the maximal interincisal distance. All patients received bony ankylosis removal, interposition of a finger-shaped temporalis myofascial flap in the articular gap and coverage with temporoparietal fascial flap as a new capsule. In the postoperative period an aggressive physiotherapy was carried on for at least 6 months. RESULTS: All cases experimented release of pain (evaluated by a Visual Analogue Scale method), a return to a normal diet and a stable improvement in mouth opening during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: This technique should be considered a reliable method to avoid relapse of ankylosis and to stabilize postoperative results.
AIM: In order to evaluate the reliability of interpositional gap arthroplasty with temporalis myofascial flap the authors retrospectively analysed the data of 5 patients suffering from bilateral temporomandibular ankylosis operated on with this technique. METHODS: The preoperative assessment included evaluation of pain during function, interference with eating and the maximal interincisal distance. All patients received bony ankylosis removal, interposition of a finger-shaped temporalis myofascial flap in the articular gap and coverage with temporoparietal fascial flap as a new capsule. In the postoperative period an aggressive physiotherapy was carried on for at least 6 months. RESULTS: All cases experimented release of pain (evaluated by a Visual Analogue Scale method), a return to a normal diet and a stable improvement in mouth opening during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: This technique should be considered a reliable method to avoid relapse of ankylosis and to stabilize postoperative results.