Arthroplasty of the temporomandibular joint with use of a vitallium condyle prosthesis: report of three cases.
We have devised a Vitallium intramedullary prosthesis to replace the deformed arthritic condyle in cases that require bilateral condylectomy or in rare long-term failures of a single condylectomy. Experience has led to modification of this prosthesis. Recently a rectangular stem that prevents rotation of the prosthesis in the condylar stub has been added (Fig 11). In bilateral condylectomies, replacement of only one side by the Vitallium condylar prosthesis is adequate, because it stabilizes the mandible by maintaining its original fulcrum in the temporomandibular joint. Three cases of replacement with the Vitallium condyle prosthesis are reported, with follow-up studies of two to three years postoperatively. The results to date have been gratifying.
D000328:Adult; D001168:Arthritis / Q000601:surgery; D001178:Arthroplasty; D002358:Cartilage, Articular; D002858:Chromium Alloys; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007595:Joint Prosthesis; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000601:surgery; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D014800:Vitallium
D002858:Chromium Alloys; D014800:Vitallium