Condyle position and mobility before and after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomies and neuromuscular rehabilitation.

Abstract

Correction of dentofacial deformities in patients with existing temporomandibular dysfunction and pain by intraoral vertical ramus osteotomies may result in improved function and resolution of symptoms. A prospective study of condylar position and mobility was made in nine patients with anterior disk displacements with reduction and associated temporomandibular pain and dysfunction. Each patient was treated by bilateral intraoral vertical ramus osteotomies with 2 to 3 weeks of maxillomandibular fixation and no interosseous fixation of the proximal segment. Condylar position and mobility in the surgical group were compared with normative values derived from seven individuals without discernible pain or dysfunction. Immediately postoperatively, the condyle was consistently positioned anteriorly and inferiorly, but the condyles tended to return to their preoperative position. Condylar mobility after surgery exceeded presurgical mobility and was associated with improved mandibular function.