Treatment of Chronic Recurrent Mandibular Dislocations by Eminectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation is defined as excessive forward movement of the condyle beyond the articular eminence with complete separation of the articular surfaces and fixation in this position. It is usually associated with poor development of the articular fossa, laxity of the temporomandibular ligament or joint capsule, and excessive activity of the lateral pterygoid and infrahyoid muscles. We present a case of chronic luxation of the TMJ treated by bilateral eminectomy performed under general anesthesia. No dislocation recurrence, postoperative pain, or functional alterations were observed. It has been reported in the literature that surgical treatment should be applied in the presence of long-term dislocations. It is stated that eminectomy is an effective treatment modality for removing the obstacle in the condylar path and has a fairly low recurrence risk.