Costochondral Grafts in the treatment of Temporomandibular joint ankylosis: a Clinical Study

Background: Treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis usually requires adequate excision of the involved ankylotic block (arthroplasty) without interposing any material (gap arthroplasty) or interpositional arthroplasty using autogenous or alloplastic materials. The objective of this paper was to note the potential of the costochondral graft (CCGs) as an interpositional material and to see whether they induce normal growth potential in the reconstructed mandible. Materials and method: The ankylosed temporomandibular joint was reached by a preauricular incision with or without angulation and exposed. In the first 4 cases, arthroplasty was done using a bur. The bony mass was detached of its muscle attachments and removed. In the 5th case, condylectomy was performed. In all cases, this was followed by immediate costochondral grafting. Results: The maximal incisal opening in the pre-operative period ranged from 0- 2mm and in the immediate post- operative period from 15- 20mm. at the end of the follow up period it ranged from 20- 35 mm. The increase in SNB angle, SND angle, ramus length and mandibular body length all showed linear growth of mandible on the side where costochondral grafting was done. Conclusion: The articular reconstruction with costochondral grafts for the treatment of TMJ ankylosis is efficient in relation to post- operative maximal incisal opening, recurrence and articular function