Artificial Joint Replacement in Malformation Surgery

Various diseases and syndromes impose pathologic conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Typical enborn syndromes with TMJ deformations are Goldenhar syndrome, hemifacial macrosomia, Nager syndrome, and Treacher-Collins syndrome. Typical developmental diseases with TMJ deformations in early adulthood are idiopathic condylar resorption leading to a hypoplastic state or condylar hyperplasia leading to an over-development of joints. The use of alloplastic prosthesis in TMJ’s affecting syndromes and diseases by means of correcting TMJ conditions and mandibular deformities is a new option in malformation surgery. Customized prostheses designed by computer (CAD/CAM) are state-of-the-art in artificial TMJ replacement. Planning and surgery of a patient with an idiopathic condylar resorption is demonstrated in detail.