THE MODIFIED CONDYLOTOMY FOR TMJD PATIENTS: A GOOD SOLUTION OR JUST ANOTHER SURGERY?

摘要

Several treatment options are available to patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD). Before initiating treatment, accurate diagnosis is essential to assure that the treatment is individualized to the patient's symptoms and underlying disease process. For patients with appropriately diagnosed internal derangement of the one or both temporomandibular joints (TMJ), conservative therapy always should be attempted initially. For the few patients who fail conservative therapy, surgical options must be considered, including their risks and benefits. The modified condylotomy has the unique advantage in that it is an extra-capsular procedure that has been shown to have a high degree of success, with low morbidity and low re-operation rates. In addition, patients with mild Class III skeletal malocclusion with joint discomfort can undergo this procedure to address both their concerns. While successful, the modified condylotomy is not a panacea. Proper diagnosis and patient selection are critical for success. For patients in whom conservative therapy has failed, the modified condylotomy can be an excellent form of treatment.