In this paper the surgical management of TMJ dysfunction-ankylosis and arthropathies-is described. The surgical techniques and the necessity of wide exposure are pointed out. Only thus are correct reshaping of the condyle, repair of the disc and radical resection of ankylotic bone tissue possible. The indication for prosthetic substitution to be interpositioned in cases with discal atrophy and perforation is discussed. There were no cases of facial paresis and no recurrence of ankylosis. The results, in regard to the functional aspects, confirm the efficiency of the methods described.