Surgical and Orthodontic Approach to Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis After Ear Infection: A Case Series

Ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is defined as the emergence of a bony or fibrous compound between the condyle and the cranial base. It can result in divergent craniofacial characteristics. The aim of this study was to present an orthodontic-surgical approach in a case series of 4 patients with a diagnosis of TMJ ankylosis as a complication of otomastoiditis. The patient characteristics of 4 patients in whom TMJ ankylosis was diagnosed as a complication of otomastoiditis were described. All patients were treated with gap arthroplasty with costochondral graft, physiotherapy, and orthodontic therapy to achieve acceptable mouth opening and function. All reacted differently to this therapy, and additional interventions were required during childhood. In early-onset ankylosis, however, guiding the mandibular growth orthodontically can prevent increasing facial asymmetry and canting of the occlusal plane. After the pubertal growth spurt is finished, orthodontic treatment combined with surgical intervention may be considered to correct facial asymmetry and provide good dental occlusion. Orthodontic and surgical treatments showed themselves to be fundamental for patients with TMJ ankylosis as a complication of otomastoiditis, although continual monitoring until the end of growth is necessary to achieve the most functional recovery possible.