Patient perception following alloplastic total temporomandibular joint replacement

Abstract

INTRODUCTION : A retrospective analysis was done on patients who had undergone unilateral temporomandibular joint reconstruction using alloplastic temporomandibular prostheses. AIM : The study wished to highlight patient perceptions after surgery; specifically relating to pain, function, and aesthetics. MATERIAL AND METHOD : Twenty three patients were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, ability to eat, quality of life and scar appraisal. RESULTS : Patients Vas scores were favourable for all parameters save for scar appreciation. CONCLUSION : Total temporomandibular alloplastic joint replacement is a viable treatment option, with generally positive surgical outcomes for patients.