Alloplastic Reconstruction of the Temporomandibular Joint in Treatment of Craniofacial Developmental or Congenital Anomalies: A Surgical Case Report
Stephen F. Worrall, M.D., F.R.C.S., F.D.S.R.C.S., Honorary Secretary, The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Bradford, England, The United Kingdom; Robert W. Christensen, D.D.S., F.A.I.M.B.E., Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, The Rocky Mountain TMJ Surgical Conference, Golden, CO
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Abstract
Objective: To describe the surgical planning and treatment approach in addressing the oral and maxillofacial needs for one particular patient suffering congenital anomalies of the craniofacial anatomy. A secondary objective is to restore mandibular and maxillary function and esthetics to the young, adult patient. The tertiary objective is to educate the surgeon as to alloplastic implant options that may be available to restore function and relieve pain for the patient missing certain anatomical structures from birth.
Methods: Through the use of advanced medical imaging tools, a thorough understanding of the patient's prior failed medical treatments, and a meticulous understanding of the benefits of alloplastic reconstruction, the surgeon can mitigate patient symptoms and at the same time increase the probability of a successful outcome. The surgeon can then collaborate with the surgical and implant design team to not only prescribe the surgical correction necessary, but also design and construct the actual temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and mandibular implants used for the case, as well as perform mock surgery on a stereolithography