Customized Alloplastic Reconstruction of Unilateral TMJ Ankylosis in a Young Adult: A Case Report

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a debilitating condition characterized by the fusion of the mandibular condyle to the glenoid fossa, leading to restricted mandibular motion. We report the case of a 26-year-old female with left-sided TMJ ankylosis, presenting with limitation in mouth opening and degenerative changes. Preoperative imaging and planning facilitated the fabrication of patient-specific cutting guides and custom alloplastic components. Surgical intervention involved careful osteotomies, resection of the ankylotic mass, and placement of custom joint components into the surgically prepared fossa. Postoperatively, the patient underwent intermaxillary fixation for 2 months, and was then referred to a physiotherapist, ultimately achieving a mouth opening of 30 mm. Follow-up at 1 and 3 months showed stable improvement, with no signs of re- ankylosis. Customized TMJ reconstruction, combined with an autogenous fat graft, offers a viable solution for restoring mandibular mobility and improving quality of life in patients with TMJ ankylosis.