Animal models of temporomandibular joint heterotopic ossification: a scoping review

Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2024 Nov;53(11):950-960. doi: 10.1016/j.ijom.2024.07.011. Epub 2024 Aug 1.

Abstract

There are few animal models for heterotopic ossification of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ-HO). This scoping review provides an overview of current knowledge on the induction methods and specific conditions required to produce TMJ-HO in various animal models. Two independent reviewers selected papers from the PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. The inclusion criteria were articles in English, in vivo studies, and a TMJ-HO induction method. Observational, in vitro, human studies, reviews, and book chapters were excluded. Twenty-four publications were included. HO was surgically, genetically, or chemically induced through single or combined defects in the condyle, articular disc, and temporal bone in animal models (sheep=9 studies, mouse=5, rat=4, rabbit=2, pig=2, goat=1, dog=1, monkey=1) specific for traumatic TMJ-HO (n=4), ankylosis (n=9), osteoarthritis (n=8), experimental disc perforation (n=1), status post-TMJ replacement (n=1), and status post bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (n=1). TMJ-HO remains challenging to study due to its multifactorial etiology and largely unknown pathogenesis, which varies between species. There is a need for more accurate, reproducible animal models that can be extrapolated to human TMJ-HO and a consolidated clinical classification system to allow for meaningful future research.

Keywords: Animal models; Ankylosis; Heterotopic ossification; Osteoarthritis; Temporomandibular joint.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal*
  • Ossification, Heterotopic* / etiology
  • Temporomandibular Joint / surgery
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders* / etiology
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders* / surgery