Efficacy of temporalis myofascial flap as an interpositional graft material in the management of tmj ankylosis:.

ABSTRACT

Temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is an extremely disabling affliction that causes problems in mastication, digestion, speech, appearance and hygiene. Surgery of TMJ ankylosis needs careful evaluation and planning to yield predictable results. Ankylosis may be corrected surgically by an array of procedures like gap arthroplasty, joint reconstruction and interpositional arthroplasty. Though many types of autogenous grafts and alloplastic materials are available for the interpositioning, the temporalis muscle graft offers significant advantages like ease of harvesting, minimal donor site morbidity and effective coverage of the arthroplasty site. The efficacy of the same is highlighted in this article by its application in four cases of TMJ ankylosis.