Post-traumatic unilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis in pediatric patients presents significant challenges, impacting facial growth, function, and quality of life. This case report highlights the long term (15 years) management of a 3-year-old child who developed unilateral TMJ ankylosis following facial trauma. He presented with restricted mouth opening, facial asymmetry, and difficulty in mastication, significantly affecting daily activities.
A multidisciplinary approach was adopted to restore function and symmetry. Surgical intervention included Gap arthroplasty only, Postoperative physiotherapy as a first stage. In a later stage after skeletal maturation facial asymmetry was significant and there was also limited mouth opening. Thia was managed in this sequence; simultaneous maxillomandibular DO, followed by inter-positioning gap arthroplasty and genioplasty.
This case underscores the importance of early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment planning, and long-term follow-up in managing pediatric TMJ ankylosis to ensure proper mandibular growth and function. It also highlights the role of reconstructive surgery and physiotherapy in restoring normal joint motion and preventing recurrence.
Keywords:
Post-traumatic TMJ ankylosis, unilateral ankylosis, facial asymmetry, simultaneous maxilla mandibular DO