20-year follow-up study of disc repositioning surgery for temporomandibular joint internal derangement.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to assess the outcomes of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc repositioning as a surgical treatment for TMJ internal derangement (ID).


METHODS
By retrospective chart review, all patients who had TMJ disc repositioning for treatment of TMJ ID from 1984 to 1990 were identified. Attempts were made to locate these patients, and they were sent a TMJ questionnaire. The questionnaire provided subjective (pain and diet consistency) and objective (mandibular function) data.


RESULTS
The chart review yielded 153 patients. Complete TMJ questionnaires were obtained from 18 patients (36 joints). Analysis of data showed a reduction in pain scores, an improvement in diet consistency, and an increase in mandibular range of motion. The majority (94%) reported an improvement in quality of life.


CONCLUSIONS
Outcome data presented show that TMJ disc repositioning is an effective and successful surgical treatment for TMJ ID. This success has been maintained for 20 years in this specific patient population.
Abramowicz
Shelly
S
Instructor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA. shelly.abramowicz@childrens.harvard.edu
Dolwick
M Franklin
MF
D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D019224:Temporomandibular Joint Disc / Q000601:surgery*; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome