The need for arthrodesis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arises when a patient has severe, irreparable TMJ damage—often from ankylosis or end-stage arthritis—causing pain or complete immobility, requiring surgical fusion under anesthesia with assistance in a hospital, excluding other grouped procedures, to stabilise the joint permanently. This is indicated for extreme cases, critical where joint function cannot be restored in the maxillofacial region.
Specific scenarios include:
For example, a patient with TMJ ankylosis might need this to stop pain, with fusion for stability. In aged care, an elderly patient could benefit for comfort, given frailty. By fusing the joint, this service relieves pain, stabilises the jaw, and manages severe damage, making it a last-resort maxillofacial procedure.
Stabilises TMJ permanently, relieves severe pain, and manages irreparable damage.
Recovery of 6-8 weeks with swelling and permanent restriction; hospital stay required.
