Adolescent internal condylar resorption (AICR) of the temporomandibular joint can be successfully treated by disc repositioning and orthognathic surgery, part 2: Treatment outcomes

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate treatment outcomes for patients with TMJ adolescent internal condylar resorption (AICR) treated by a specific surgical protocol, including: (1) Removal of bilaminar tissue surrounding the condyle, (2) Articular disc repositioning with Mitek anchor technique, and (3) Concomitant orthognathic surgery. Methods: This study evaluated 24 AICR patients treated by the specific surgical protocol with clinical subjective and objective examinations and lateral cephalogram assessments for surgical changes and long-term outcomes. Results: Mean age at diagnosis was 16.5 years, and mean follow-up was 30.3 months. All 24 patients had significant reduction in TMJ pain, facial pain, and headaches, with improvement in jaw function, diet, and disability. Cephalometric analysis showed significant surgical changes but good long-term occlusal and skeletal stability. Conclusion: Patients with AICR treated with the specific surgical protocol demonstrated good skeletal and occlusal stability as well as improvement in TMJ pain, headaches, jaw function, diet, and disability.