Ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint—impression free CAD/CAM based joint replacement using patient-specific implants

Abstract

Abstract In recent years, alloplastic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement has become a permissible procedure for the reconstruction of severely destroyed TMJs. The use of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) has extended the range of applications to complex anatomical situations. The aim of the treatment is to improve the usually restricted mouth opening and thus oral hygiene and nutrition, which leads to a regular improvement in the general quality of life. The following case report describes the bilateral replacement of ankylotically destroyed TMJs using patient-specific endoprostheses with simultaneous displacement of the maxilla. Innovative in the case described is the impression-free CAD/CAM planning, whereby the upper and lower prostheses were produced on the basis of 3D printed patient models.