Osteo-cutaneous microvascular free-flaps are a viable option for reconstructing the temporomandibular joint.

Background: There are multiple reconstructive options after mandibular resection and disarticulation of the condyle. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical outcomes and functionality of osteocutaneous free flaps in the reconstruction of mandibular defects that involve the Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ). Methods: Our study is a retrospective cohort study involving subjects who underwent mandibular resection and needed TMJ reconstruction with vascularized bony-free flaps from February 2016 to June 2018. Data gathered included patient demographics, post-operative function, maximum interincisal opening (MIO), occlusion status, deviation on opening, and TMJ symptoms. Data points collected from postoperative CT imaging included the following: position of the flap in relation to the glenoid fossa and articular eminence, and closest point of contact. Results: Eight out of the nine patients who underwent free flap reconstruction of mandibular defects involving the TMJ qualified for the study. The mean age was 39.7 years old. In all 8 cases, virtual surgical planning (VSP) was used. The mean follow-up time was 18.75 months. The flap success rate was 100%. The mean MIO was 37.37 mm. Six patients resumed their premorbid diet, and one patient developed dysphagia and was peg tube dependent. In seven cases the occlusion was intact and reproducible, one case was without sufficient teeth for occlusion. On imaging, the mean distance from the neo-condyle to the glenoid fossa was 14 mm and to the articular eminence 8.68 mm. The point of closest contact in all cases appeared to be the articular eminence. Conclusion: Vascularized Osteocutaneous-flaps such as FFFs and DCIA flaps provide a good option for the reconstruction of mandibular defects that involve the TMJ. Ipsilateral deviation on opening does not negatively affect clinical outcomes or function. Placing patients in Maxillomandibular fixation for 4-6 weeks may help to prevent condylar sag and provide stable post-operative occlusion.

Otologic complications of temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis due to arteriovenous fistula.

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a rare sequela following arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint. This case report discusses a constellation of symptoms, findings, and appropriate management of a patient with a superficial temporal AVF. Several findings in this case, including vertigo, nystagmus, and hearing loss, have not been previously documented in the literature.

The Predictive Hole Technique: A Technical Note.

We describe a novel technique in which predictive holes, normally unique to patient-specific plates, may be utilized with off the shelf stock plates. This allows for the numerous benefits of predictive holes in mandibular reconstruction while negating the added cost of a custom milled plate. Three case examples are presented for technique illustration.

Case Report: Safety and Efficacy of Denosumab in Four Children With Noonan Syndrome With Multiple Giant Cell Lesions of the Jaw.

Noonan syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the RAS/MAPK pathway. Multiple giant cell lesions are a rare sequelae of disruptions in this pathway, termed Noonan-like multiple giant cell lesions (NL/MGCLs). Medical management of these tumors rather than surgical intervention is preferential as the lesions are benign but locally destructive and recurring. This case series describes four male pediatric patients with Noonan syndrome and multiple giant cell lesions of the jaw treated with denosumab, a monoclonal antibody to receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL), which has been approved for the treatment of malignant giant cell tumors in adults but not evaluated for safety or efficacy in children. All four pediatric patients responded clinically and radiographically to the treatment. Adverse events occurred in a predictable pattern and included hypocalcemia and joint pain during the initiation of treatment and symptomatic hypercalcemia after the cessation of treatment. Growth was not significantly impaired in these skeletally immature patients. This case series demonstrates how a weight-adjusted denosumab dose can effectively treat NL/MGCLs and provides laboratory data for consideration of the timing of monitoring for known side effects.