Auricular cartilage grafting after discectomy of the temporomandibular joint.

A consensus does not exist regarding an optimal reconstructive strategy following discectomy of the temporomandibular joint. This study presents retrospective documentation of the treatment outcome experienced with the use of autologous auricular cartilage grafting after discectomy in 26 joints. At an average follow-up slightly in excess of 2 years, this procedure appears to have approximately 85% effectiveness in producing significant relief of pain and increasing mandibular range of motion.