Reconstruction of Temporomandibular Joint With a Fibula Free Flap: A Case Report With a Histological Study

Abstract

Reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) for congenital or acquired deformities is a major challenge for maxillofacial surgeons. The alternatives for reconstructing the TMJ include free grafts (costochondral, iliac crest, clavicle, or metatarsus), free flaps (fibula), osteogenic distraction, and alloplastic grafts. The lack of biological knowledge of cartilaginous grafts and their reaction to the environment of the TMJ is largely responsible for the inability to predict growth. This report describes the use of a free flap for TMJ reconstruction.

Reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) for congenital or acquired deformities is a major challenge for maxillofacial surgeons. The alternatives for reconstructing the TMJ include free grafts (costochondral, iliac crest, clavicle, or metatarsus), free flaps (fibula), osteogenic distraction, and alloplastic grafts. The lack of biological knowledge of cartilaginous grafts and their reaction to the environment of the TMJ is largely responsible for the inability to predict growth. This report describes the use of a free flap for TMJ reconstruction.