Inappropriate use of foreign materials in temporomandibular joint ankylosis surgery: report of two cases.

Gap and interpositional arthroplasties are the most commonly used methods in the treatment of temporomandibular joint ankylosis. Complete resection of ankylotic segments, fibrotic band release and creating gap between the condyle and the glenoid fossa have great importance. Two patients were admitted to our clinic with complaints of difficulty in opening mouth and joint pain. In physical examination, maximum mouth opening values were recorded as 7 mm in one patient and 9 mm in another. An operation was planned due the presence of radiological grade 4 bilateral bony ankylosis. During the operation, foreign materials were found in the joint spaces of the patients. The first patient had a piece of nylon bag in the joint space, whereas the second patient had a silicon sheath used for wound therapy. Following removal of these materials, as a result of the recreation of joint spaces and the placement of suitable silicon blocks, 32 and 34 mm of mouth openings were noted during follow-up. In conclusion, recreated temporomandibular joint spaces after ankylosis surgery may be filled with a variety of autogenous or non-autogenously materials. However, the use of wrong materials inevitably causes recurrence and even worsens the primary condition.