Management of a rare case of extra hepatic portal vein obstruction with temporomandibular joint ankylosis and review of literature

Comparison of Surgical Techniques for Correction of Mandibular Asymmetry in TMJ Ankylosis Patients

Background

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis frequently results in mandibular asymmetry, which impairs an affected person's ability to function and look good. Because of the intricacy of TMJ ankylosis and the variety of surgical procedures available, correcting mandibular asymmetry surgically can be difficult.

Methods

Patients with mandibular asymmetry and TMJ ankylosis who had surgery at a tertiary care facility between certain periods were the subject of a retrospective investigation. Medical records were used to gather information on patient demographics, pre-operative imaging, surgical methods, and post-operative results. Surgical methods included condylectomy with or without reconstruction, joint reconstruction with or without orthognathic surgery, and unilateral or bilateral mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO). Occlusion, patient-reported results, and facial symmetry made up the evaluation criteria.

Findings

The study had a total of 50 patients, with different surgical method distributions. Comparing unilateral and bilateral MDO to condylectomy and joint reconstruction, notable gains in face symmetry and occlusion were seen. The largest complication rate was seen with condylectomy, mostly from recurrence and device-related issues, albeit the rates of other procedures varied as well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, customized treatment planning is necessary for the correction of mandibular asymmetry in individuals with TMJ ankylosis. Although mandibular distraction osteogenesis produces better results for occlusion and facial symmetry, it is crucial to carefully weigh the risks involved. While still feasible treatments, condylectomy and joint reconstruction require strict monitoring for any consequences. In order to enhance patient care in this difficult patient group, future research should concentrate on improving treatment procedures and long-term results.

Managing Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis Concurrent With Extrahepatic Portal Vein Obstruction: A Report of a Rare Case and Literature Review Investigating the Hypercoagulability Link

This report describes the understudied co-occurrence of temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) and extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO), exploring a shared pathway involving hypercoagulability. TMJA is an acquired pathology where joint surfaces fuse, causing restricted mouth opening and facial asymmetry. Globally, TMJA is prevalent among 1.5 to 5 patients/million, with a higher incidence in developing countries. While trauma and infections often cause TMJA, the pathogenesis remains unclear in many cases. Recent literature notes a link between TMJA and EHPVO, a noncirrhotic vascular disorder causing portal hypertension and upper gastrointestinal bleeding in children. Prothrombotic disorders such as protein C and S deficiency may contribute to EHPVO, mirroring TMJA's association with hypercoagulability. This report focuses on an 11-year-old female diagnosed with TMJA, accompanied by a history of ear infection and concurrent EHPVO. We further presented clinical observations, surgical interventions, and outcomes alongside a literature review to understand the probable connection between EHPVO and TMJA.