Simultaneous custom-made replacement of the temporomandibular joint and cranioplasty

Abstract

A 23-year-old man presented with a history of fibrous ankylosis of the left temporomandibular joint (TMJ), scarring and shortening of the left temporalis muscle secondary to transection, and surgically-induced neuropathic pain after previous decompression of the temporal bone. There was evident hollowing of the left temporal fossa, and mouth opening was limited to 5mm. The aims of the operation were to treat the ankylosis, improve cosmesis, and reduce his medication. His left TMJ was reconstructed with a custom-made alloplastic joint, and a simultaneous custom-made cranioplasty. At follow-up after 2 years he was free of pain and taking no drugs. He had no obvious cranial deformity, and his mouth opening had increased to 35 mm. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of simultaneous custom-made cranioplasty and reconstruction of the TMJ.