[Temporomandibular joint prosthesis. A retrospective study from 1947].

Degenerative troubles of the temporo-mandibular joint constitute a major pathology for the maxillo-facial surgeon. While articular replacements have long been developed and used by orthopedic surgeons, none of these seem to give satisfaction in the TMJ. After a short historical and physiological recall, a number of techniques are described, together with a short evaluation of their use. In all 597 cases are reported, whilst an attempt at classification is made in the different types of prostheses used, ie interpositional, endo-osseous, extra-cortical, and prostheses designed for extensive reconstruction.