Temporomandibular Joint Total Replacement

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull, facilitating essential functions like chewing, speaking, and facial expression. Disorders of the TMJ, collectively known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), can cause pain, restricted jaw movement, and diminished quality of life. While many TMD cases are managed conservatively with physical therapy, medications or splints, severe cases may require surgical intervention, including total joint replacement (TJR) of the TMJ. TMJ TJR is a complex procedure reserved for patients with advanced joint pathology, where less invasive treatments have failed. This summary explores the indications, procedure, outcomes, complications and advancements in TMJ TJR.