The AO Technical Commission’s expert CMF surgeons have recently published a narrative review on the use of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prostheses in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery [1]. Total mandibular joint replacement is a clinical strategy to treat severe temporomandibular joint disease. After approval by the FDA in the 1990s, the use of TMJ prostheses has become a regular surgical intervention in some TMJ disorders. However, procedures to implant the prosthesis and replace the TMJ are complex, and controversy remains regarding indications and timing of the technique.

The recent review, produced by expert surgeon members of the AO Technical Commission’s TMJ Task Force, addresses the indications, characteristics, and variables in TMJ replacement in clinical conditions related to condylar destruction (rheumatoid arthritis and degenerative disease; idiopathic condylar resorption; TMJ osteoarthritis; and juvenile idiopathic arthritis) or condylar overgrowth in the case of benign tumors (osteoma, osteochondroma, ameloblastoma, odontogenic keratocyst, synovial chondromatosis; and chondroid tenosynovial giant cell tumor).

Themes explored in the review include the most common complications of total TMJ replacement; patient age at the time of surgery; and the advantages and disadvantages of implanting alloplastic custom-made joints. Furthermore, the review evaluates post-surgical functional and quality of life outcomes for patients.

Reference

1. Smolka W, Kumar R, Zimmerer R, Peacock Z, and Olate S. TMJ Prostheses for Condylar Resorption and Benign Tumors Affecting the Condyle. The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery. (2025) Oct; 36 (7).