TMJ Ankylosis Following Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis: Management With Simultaneous Midface External Distraction and Bilateral Temporomandibular Joint Replacement

Early mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) can decrease upper airway and feeding complications in pediatric patients with micrognathia; however, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) complications like TMJ ankylosis (TMJA) may occur. TMJA can disturb pediatric patients' function and craniofacial growth, resulting in significant physical and psychosocial consequences. Additional surgical procedures may also be required, increasing the burden of care on patients and their families. CMF surgeons must discuss the potential complications of early MDO surgery with families as well as potential solutions should these problems occur. This report presents the case of a 17-year-old male with a severe craniofacial anomaly with features of Treacher-Collins syndrome (TCS) and a surgical history of tracheostomy, cleft palate repair, mandibular reconstruction with harvested costochondral grafts, and MDO with resultant bilateral TMJA and limited mouth opening. The patient Was treated with bilateral custom alloplastic TMJ replacements and simultaneous maxillary DO using a Rigid External Distraction (RED) device.