Contemporary management of temporomandibular joint fractures in dogs and cats: review and expert insights on diagnostic imaging, treatment strategies, and long-term outcomes.

Management of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) fractures is challenging and is a subject of ongoing discussions and controversies in both the veterinary and human medical fields. Regardless of the management strategy, obtaining precise diagnostic imaging in the form of conventional or cone-beam computed tomography and potentially magnetic resonance imaging is pivotal for medical and surgical decision-making and prognostic purposes. The main objective of TMJ fracture management is a rapid return to normal function via restoration of pretrauma occlusion, range of motion, and masticatory function. With that in mind, it is prudent to distinguish between surgical interventions, such as condylectomy and open reduction with internal fixation, or to elect a conservative management approach. Given the diversity in TMJ fracture and patient circumstances, such as age, concomitant trauma, financial situation, and availability of expertise, the formulation of an individualized treatment plan is recommended. Knowledge of potential short- and long-term complications such as infection, malocclusion, ankylosis, fibrosis, and osteoarthritis is essential during TMJ fracture management. Importantly, as our clinical and research knowledge on managing TMJ fractures in dogs and cats grows, we rely on comparative evidence-based overviews, and inspirations from human medical experts to advance the veterinary field. Hence, this review discusses contemporary approaches to managing TMJ fractures and the outcomes in dogs and cats from a one-health perspective.

The Comparison of Functional Outcomes in Patients With Unilateral or Bilateral Intracapsular Mandibular Condylar Fractures After Closed or Open Treatment: A 10-Year Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: The treatment strategies for mandibular condylar head fractures, also known as intracapsular condylar fractures (ICFs), have not been concluded. We humbly present our treatment outcomes and share our experience in our department. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the functional outcomes between closed reduction (CR) and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for management of unilateral or bilateral ICFs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This 10-year retrospective cohort study included 71 patients with 102 ICFs who were treated in our department from May 2007 to August 2017. Nine patients mixed with extracapsular fractures were excluded; thus, 62 patients with 93 ICFs were included. All patients received treatment by the senior surgeon in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taiwan. The patient's basic data, fracture morphologies, associated injuries, managements, complications, and maximal mouth opening (MMO) measurement at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperative were reviewed for analysis. RESULTS: Among the 93 fractures, 31 (50%) were bilateral and 31 were unilateral (50%). Based on He's classification, 45 (48%) had type A fracture, 13 (14%) had type B, 5 (5%) had type C, 20 (22%) had type M, and 10 (11%) had no displacement. Maximal mouth opening of 37 mm in unilateral cases after 6 months was significantly higher than the 33-mm MMO in bilateral cases. In addition, the MMO in the ORIF group was significantly higher than that of the CR group in 3 months postoperative. Univariate (odds ratio, 4.92; P = 0.01) and multivariate (odds ratio, 4.76; P = 0.027) analyses revealed CR as an independent risk factor for trismus development compared with ORIF. Malocclusion was observed in 5 patients in both CR and ORIF groups. In addition, 1 patient developed temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis in the CR group. No surgical-related temporary or permanent facial nerve palsy was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Open reduction and internal fixation for condylar head fracture provided better recovery in MMO than CR, and the MMO recovery was less in bilateral condylar head fracture than unilateral condylar head fracture. Open reduction and internal fixation in ICFs have a lower risk for trismus development and should be the treatment of choice in selected cases.

Orthomorphic surgery for correction of mandibular dysmorphology post TMJ ankylosis. A report of 4 cases and review of literature / Cirugía ortomórfica para la corrección de la dismorfología mandibular posterior a la anquilosis de la ATM. Un informe de 4 casos y revisión de la literatura

La dismorfología mandibular es predominantemente el resultado de una deficiencia o exceso de crecimiento no coordinado. La anquilosis unilateral de la articulación temporomandibular durante la fase de crecimiento activo, si no se opera, produce cambios en el tamaño y la forma de la mandíbula y las estructuras circundantes. El uso de la cirugía ortognática para corregir las deformidades faciales que surgen de las discrepancias en las relaciones espaciales, aunque bien aceptado, no puede corregir las anomalías que surgen de una morfología alterada. La corrección quirúrgica utilizando principios ortomórficos restaura la morfología sin cambiar el estado oclusal, lo que demuestra ser una adición invaluable al repertorio de un cirujano maxilofacial.Cuatro pacientes previamente operados por anquilosis unilateral de la articulación temporomandibular que presentaban asimetría mandibular fueron tratados mediante corrección ortomórfica. El factor etiológico en todos los pacientes reclutados fue un traumatismo en la articulación temporomandibular durante la infancia. Los pacientes fueron evaluados para cambios neurosensoriales, evaluación de la apertura bucal antes y después de la cirugía, evaluación postoperatoria de la simetría mandibular y complicaciones postoperatorias al 3.er día, 3 semanas y 3 meses después de la cirugía. Se observó una buena a moderada corrección de la asimetría en todos los casos. Se observó parestesia del nervio mentoniano en un paciente. No se observaron complicaciones postoperatorias.La técnica descrita se puede utilizar como complemento de la cirugía ortognática convencional o como una alternativa de tratamiento de una sola etapa confiable para entidades dismórficas complejas. (AU)

Mandibular dysmorphology is predominantly a result of uncoordinated growth deficiency or surfeit. Unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis during the active growth phase, if left unoperated, brings about changes in the size and shape of the mandible and the surrounding structures. The use of orthognathic surgery in correcting the facial deformities arising from discrepancies in spatial relationships although well accepted is unable to correct anomalies arising from an altered morphology. The surgical correction using orthomorphic principles restore the morphology without changing the occlusal status, thus proving to be an invaluable addition to a maxillofacial surgeon’s repertoire.Four patients previously operated on for unilateral temporomandibular ankylosis having mandibular asymmetry were managed by orthomorphic correction. The etiological factor in all the recruited patients was trauma to the temporomandibular joint during childhood. The patients were evaluated for neurosensory changes, assessment of mouth opening before and after surgery, postoperative assessment of mandibular symmetry, and postoperative complications on 3rd day, 3 weeks, and 3 months postoperatively. Good to moderate asymmetry correction was seen in all the cases. Mental nerve paraesthesia was noted in one patient. No postoperative complications were noted.The described technique can be used as a complement to conventional orthognathic surgery or as a reliable single-stage treatment alternative for complex dysmorphic entities. (AU)

Differences in morphology of temporomandibular joint ankylosis of traumatic and infective origin.

The aim of this study was to determine whether there are any differences in morphology between temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) of traumatic and infective origin. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of 25 patients (28 joints) with TMJA of traumatic origin (trauma group) and 15 patients (15 joints) with TMJA of infectious origin (infection group) were included. The following morphological parameters were evaluated on multiple sections of the CBCT scans: lateral juxta-articular bone growth, residual condyle, residual glenoid fossa, ramus thickening, ankylotic mass fusion line, sclerosis of the ankylosed condyle and spongiosa of the glenoid fossa, and mastoid and glenoid fossa air cell obliteration. Lateral juxta-articular bone growth, juxta-articular extension of fusion, and the presence of normal medial residual condyle and residual glenoid fossa were exclusively found in post-traumatic TMJA. There were differences in ramus thickening (82.1% in trauma vs 53.3% in infection), sclerosis of the ankylosed condyle (100% in trauma vs 60% in infection), and sclerosis of the spongiosa of the glenoid fossa (100% in trauma vs 46.7% in infection) between the trauma and infection groups. Mastoid and glenoid fossa air cell obliteration was found more frequently in the infection group (mastoid obliteration: 23.1% in infection vs 4% in trauma; glenoid obliteration: 66.7% in infection vs 55.6% in trauma ). CBCT imaging can be helpful in differentiating between TMJA of traumatic and infectious origin.

Temporomandibular joint prosthesis as treatment option for mandibular condyle fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of the literature on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prosthesis as a treatment option after mandibular condyle fracture. Three databases were searched (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library) and 2670 unique papers were identified. A total of 337 studies were included (121 case reports, 89 case series, and 127 cohort/clinical studies). In total 14,396 patients and 21,560 prostheses were described. Of the 127 cohort or clinical studies, 100 (79%) reported inclusion criteria, 54 (43%) reported exclusion criteria, and 96 (76%) reported the inclusion period. The base population from which patients were recruited was reported in 57 studies (45%). The reason for TMJ prosthesis implantation was reported for 4177 patients (29.0%). A history of condylar fracture was present in 83 patients (2.0%); a history of mandibular trauma was present in 580 patients (13.9%). The meta-analysis showed a pooled prevalence of condylar fracture of 1.6% (95% confidence interval 0.9-2.4%) and a pooled prevalence of trauma or condylar fracture of 11.3% (95% confidence interval 7.1-16.0%). Heterogeneity was highly significant (P < 0.001). The TMJ prosthesis appears to be reserved for patients with persistent pain, bony or fibrous ankylosis, or osteomyelitis after primary closed or open treatment of fractures of the mandibular condyle.

Discopexia e fisioterapia no tratamento do deslocamento de disco articular sem redução / Discopexy and physiotherapy in the treatment of articular disc displacement withou reduction

A articulação temporomandibular está vunerável a várias condições de anormalidades já bastante conhecidas, dentre elas, o deslocamento do disco articular sem redução, considerado pela literatura o mais comum das patologias desta região. A deterioração do quadro pode ser um indicativo da necessidade cirúrgica. Em específico, no deslocamento de disco sem redução, o reposicionamento definitivo pode ser adquirido através de discopexia e artrocentese. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar um caso clínico de deslocamento de disco articular bilateral sem redução, apresentando a importância da fisioterapia associada à abordagem cirúrgia na recuperação da função mandibular, bem como, reforçar a importância de uma abordagem conjunta entre análise clínica e imaginológica para resolução de casos. Paciente feminino cursando com diversos sintomas em face e pescoço de forma progressiva ao longo de dois anos foi submetida a cirurgia na articulação temporo-mandibular, onde foi feita a discopexia através de ancoragem dos discos articulares com parafusos. A avaliação física, assim como, a imaginológica, ajudaram na confirmação do diagnóstico. A abordagem cirurgica adotada no tratamento deste caso foi descrita na literatura desde o final do século XIX. Conclui-se que, o método utilizado no tratamento do deslocamento de disco sem redução deve ser baseado nos sinais e sintomas do paciente, cuja abordagem deve ser readequada de acordo com as mudanças do quadro apresentado. Nesta análise, a abordagem cirúrgica associada à fisioterapia específica para as estruturas musculoesquelética da face trouxeram resultados positivos(AU)

The temporomandibular joint is responsible for several well-known conditions of abnormalities, among them, the joint disc displacement without reduction, considered by the literature the most common pathology of this region. Deterioration of the condition may be indicative of surgical need. Specifically, in displacement disc without reduction, definitive repositioning can be achieved through discopexy and arthrocentesis. The aim of the present study is to report a case of unilateral articular disc displacement without reduction, as well the importance of physiotherapy associated with the surgical approach in the recovery of mandibular function, as well as reinforcing the importance of a joint approach between clinical and imaging analysis for case resolution. Female patient with several symptoms in the face and neck progressively over two years, underwent surgery in the temporomandibular joint, where discopexy was performed by anchoring the articular discs with screws. The physical assessment, as well as the imaging, helped to confirm the diagnosis. The surgical approach adopted in the treatment of this case has been described in the literature since the end of the 19th century. In conclusion, the method used to treat articular disc displacement without reduction should be based on the patient's signs and symptoms, whose approach should be readjusted according to the changes in the presented picture. In this analysis, the surgical approach associated with specific physiotherapy for the musculoskeletal structures of the face brought positive results(AU)

Preoperative Arterial Coil Embolization for Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Surgery in Children with TMJ Ankylosis.

ABSTRACT: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis in children can alter facial development and affect oral hygiene and function. Surgical release of the ankylosis is the mainstay of treatment. The authors hypothesize that preoperative arterial coil embolization is safe and effective in preventing major blood loss during TMJ surgery (loss prompting blood transfusion or hemodynamic instability requiring vasoactive medication administration) in children with TMJ ankylosis. Patients < 16 years who were diagnosed with TMJ ankylosis (<15 maximal interincisal opening) and had embolization before surgery in the last 5 years were included. Out of 9 initial search results, 3 patients were excluded (age > 16). Information gathered were patient demographics, diagnostic imaging, procedural details, complications, and clinical outcomes. Six patients, mean age 11.14 years (range 7-15 years) year and a mean weight of 40.8 ± 19 kg were included. Underlying etiologies for TMJ ankylosis: Pierre Robin Syndrome (n = 2), juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (n = 1), Goldenhar's syndrome (n = 1), trauma (n = 1), and micrognathia (n = 1). Neck computed tomography angiogram before embolization demonstrated an intimate approximation between the internal maxillary artery (IMAX) and/or external carotid artery and ankylotic mass in all patients. Eight successful embolizations were performed without procedural complication. In 1 patient with angiographic evidence of surgical internal maxillary artery ligation, embolization was performed via collaterals. Surgery was performed within 48 hours of embolization. Airway access during surgery was via nasal intubation (n = 4), oral intubation (n = 3). The estimated blood loss (EBL) during surgery was 78.33 ± 47.08 ml. Three patients had subsequent TMJ surgery with a mean estimated blood loss of 73.33 ± 46.18 ml. After a mean follow-up of 17 ± 15 months, patients showed a 13.8mm mean increment of maximal interincisal opening with 95% CI (5.74-21.9), P < 0.007.

Prospective study of the long-term outcomes and complications after total temporomandibular joint replacement: analysis at 10 years.

This prospective analysis was performed to assess the long-term benefits of the TMJ Concepts joint replacement system in the UK. All patients who had replacement temporomandibular joints (TMJ) with at least 10 years of follow-up were included. The most common primary diagnoses were trauma, multiple previous operations, psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, degenerative disease, and ankylosis. A total of 43 patients (62 joints) were followed up for 10 years (mean age 45, range 22-70 years); 39 were female and four were male. The mean number of previous TMJ procedures was 2.5 (range 0-10). Over the 10 years of follow-up, there were significant improvements in pain score (10-point scale; decreased from 7.4 to 1.7), maximum mouth opening (increased from 21.0 mm to 34.7 mm), and dietary score (10-point scale; increased from 4.1 to 9.5). Joints in two patients failed, one secondary to a local dental infection and one due to reankylosis. None failed due to wear of the prosthesis, whether the prosthesis was standard cobalt-chrome or all-titanium. Total TMJ replacement gives good long-term improvements, both lessening pain and improving function, and is an effective form of management for irreparably damaged joints.

Follow-up evaluation of temporomandibular joints using magnetic resonance imaging after mandibular trauma: Case series analysis of young adult males.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: A relationship between mandibular fractures and traumatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions has been suggested in many studies. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best option for a TMJ evaluation, few studies have evaluated the TMJ condition after a mandibular fracture using MRI follow-up. The aim of this study was to evaluate the TMJ for post-traumatic conditions following a mandibular fracture using follow-up MRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fourteen TMJs of seven young adult males (aged 19-21 years) with mandibular fractures were analyzed by MRI, and 12 TMJs of six patients were evaluated by follow-up MRI after the trauma. Regarding the intensity of MRI, the pathologic condition of TMJ was classified into acute joint inflammation, marrow edema, and joint space widening. RESULTS: Thirteen joints (92.9%) showed pathologic conditions, including 11 with acute joint inflammation (84.6%), 10 with joint space widening (76.9%), and six with marrow edema (46.2%). Five out of 12 evaluated joints were injected with dexamethasone. Among these, four joints healed within one week, and one healed within one month. Among the seven untreated TMJs, four and one joint healed within one week and one month, respectively, but two joints of one patient did not improve until one month. Although that patient received arthrocentesis, the right joint showed osteoarthritis six months after the trauma. CONCLUSIONS: Most TMJs were acutely damaged due to mandibular trauma and healed within one week to one month. A follow-up examination could be considered at one month after the injury to confirm the possibility of traumatic TMJ disorder, such as osteoarthritis.

Temporomandibular joint trauma and disability assessment - A longitudinal exploratory study.

BACKGROUND: Orofacial trauma can encompass, isolated or not, several anatomical regions, namely facial, dental and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), one of the most complex joints in the human body. Evidence-based knowledge in the field of TMJ trauma and in temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) diagnosis and treatment, provides the necessary data for medico-legal assessment. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to bring up epidemiological data referring to TMJ injuries and sequelae, in order to present a medico-legal approach of TMJ disability. METHODS: An observational longitudinal exploratory study was performed in the database of the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Portugal, between 2000 and 2017, regarding inclusion and exclusion criteria.Statistical significance was set as P<0.05, Fisher's exact test, Binomial test and Goodman and Kruskal's test were used. RESULTS: Post-traumatic orofacial reports (n = 2622) included 234 TMJ-injury and 149 TMJ-sequelae.Epidemiological data was presented regarding age,gender, professional status and etiology. There was a statistically significant association between TMJ injury and TMJ sequela, despite a weak relation (ƛ = 0.170). No statistically significant association was identified between TMJ-injury/TMJ-sequelae and the professional status, etiology. CONCLUSION: The TMJ sequela group is smaller than the TMJ-injury, reflecting that 2/3 of the injuries have been cured without a monetary compensation value and without Health costs. The association between TMJ injury and TMJ sequelae reinforces the necessity of preventive measures in TMJ trauma, namely in physical violence context and in medico-legal impairment.

Asociación entre Hiperlaxitud Articular Generalizada y Chasquidos de la Articulación Témporo Mandibular / Association between generalized joint hypermobility and temporomandibular joint clicking

Resumen El objetivo del estudio fue analizar si la hiperlaxitud articular generalizada (HAG) es un factor de riesgo para los trastornos de la articulación temporomandibular (ATM). Para ello se evaluó la posible asociación entre chasquido de la ATM y el diagnóstico de HAG. Se trabajó con la siguiente hipótesis: el paciente con HAG, tendría mayor prevalencia de chasquido a nivel de la ATM que los que no la presentan, constituyendo la HAG un factor de riesgo para padecer un desorden articular (DA). Se examinaron 214 estudiantes de facultad de odontología (FO) de la Universidad de la República (Udelar) de Uruguay, 161 participantes del sexo femenino y 53 masculino, de entre 18 y 30 años (edad media 23.8 años, DE=2.7). A cada participante se le realizó un cuestionario y un examen clínico para diagnóstico de HAG utilizando el índice de Beighton (IB), chasquido, antecedente de trauma maxilofacial, ortodoncia, dentición completa, bloqueo abierto y turno. Todos los exámenes fueron realizados por un investigador ciego calibrado (calibración interoperador chasquido kappa= 0.68; intraoperador Beighton=0.82, chasquido=1). El estudio fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética y todos los participantes firmaron un consentimiento informado. El análisis estadístico de los datos fue realizado en base a un modelo de regresión logística múltiple. La prevalencia de HAG fue 34.16% en el género femenino y 7.55% en el masculino, de chasquido 24.22% para el femenino y 11.32% en el masculino. Las variables género (OR=3,244, p-valor 0,018) y antecedente de traumatismo (OR=2,478, p-valor 0,041) se asociaron significativamente a la presencia de chasquido. No se encontró asociación entre chasquido e HAG. El género femenino y los antecedentes de traumatismo podrían ser factores de riesgo para desórdenes a nivel de la ATM. La ausencia de asociación entre HAG y chasquido en dicho grupo etario (18-30 años), sugiere que dicho factor podría no ser de riesgo para el desarrollo de dichas patologías.

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi examinar se a hiperlaxidade articular generalizada (HAG) é um fator de risco para disfuncao articulacao temporomandibular (DAT). Isso foi feito avaliando a possível associação entre cliques atm e diagnóstico hag. O trabalho foi feito com a seguinte hipótese: o paciente com HAG, teria maior prevalência de clique no nível atm do que aqueles que não o fazem, tornando a HAG um fator de risco para DAT. Foram examinados 214 alunos de Odontologia da Universidad de la República (Udelar) do Uruguai, 161 do sexo feminino e 53 do sexo masculino, com idade entre 18 e 30 anos (idade média de 23,8 anos, DE:2,7). Cada participante recebeu questionário e exame clínico para diagnóstico de HAG utilizando o índice Beighton (IB), clique, antecedente de trauma maxilofacial, ortodontia, dentição completa, bloqueio aberto e turno. Todos os testes foram realizados por um pesquisador cego calibrado (calibração interoperadora kappa-click-0,68; intraoperador Beighton-0.82, clique-1). O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética e todos os participantes assinaram consentimento informado. A análise estatística dos dados foi realizada com base em um modelo de regressão logística múltipla. A prevalência de HAG foi de 34,16% no sexo feminino e 7,55% no masculino, de clique 24,22% para o feminino e 11,32% para o masculino. As variáveis de gênero (OR-3.244, valor p 0,018) e antecedente do trauma (OR-2.478, valor p 0,041) estiveram significativamente associadas à presença de clique. Não foi encontrada associação entre clique e HAG. O sexo feminino e o histórico de trauma podem ser fatores de risco para distúrbios no nível do articulacao temporomandibular . A ausência de associação entre HAG e click sugere que esse fator pode não estar em risco para o desenvolvimento de tais patologias.

Abstract This study analyzes whether generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) is a risk factor for temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Therefore, we evaluated the potential association between TMD clicking and GJH diagnosis. We worked with the following hypothesis: patients with GJH would have a higher prevalence of TMJ clicking than those without it, making GJH a risk factor for joint disorders. Two hundred and fourteen students from the School of Dentistry of Universidad de la República del Uruguay (UdelaR) were examined: 161 female and 53 male, aged 18 to 30 (average age: 23.8 years, SD=2.7). Each participant was given a questionnaire, and a clinical examination was performed to diagnose GJH using the Beighton score (BS), clicking, history of maxillofacial trauma, orthodontics, full dentition, open lock, and shift. A calibrated blind researcher (kappa inter-rater click calibration = 0.68; intra-rater BS score=0.82, click=1) performed all the examinations. The Ethics Committee approved the study, and all the participants signed an informed consent. A multiple logistic regression model was used to analyze the data statistically. GJH prevalence was 34.16% in women and 7.55% in men; clicking prevalence was 24.22% in women and 11.32% in men. There was a significant association between sex (OR=3.244, p-value 0.018) and history of trauma (OR=2.478, p-value 0.041) and the presence of clicking. No association was found between clicking and GJH. Female sex and history of trauma could be risk factors for TMJ disorders. The lack of association between GJH and clicking in this age group (18-30) suggests that GJH may not be a risk factor for developing these pathologies.

Rapamycin-Induced Autophagy Promotes the Chondrogenic Differentiation of Synovium-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Temporomandibular Joint in Response to IL-1ß.

Cartilage defects in temporomandibular disorders (TMD) lead to chronic pain and seldom heal. Synovium-derived mesenchymal stem cells (SMSCs) exhibit superior chondrogenesis and have become promising seed cells for cartilage tissue engineering. However, local inflammatory conditions that affect the repair of articular cartilage by SMSCs present a challenge, and the specific mechanism through which the function remains unclear. Thus, it is important to explore the chondrogenesis of SMSCs under inflammatory conditions of TMD such that they can be used more effectively in clinical treatment. In this study, we obtained SMSCs from TMD patients with severe cartilage injuries. In response to stimulation with IL-1ß, which is well known as one of the most prevalent cytokines in TMD, MMP13 expression increased, while that of SOX9, aggrecan, and collagen II decreased during chondrogenic differentiation. At the same time, IL-1ß upregulated the expression of mTOR and decreased the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I and the formation of autophagosomes. Further study revealed that rapamycin pretreatment promoted the migration of SMSCs and the expression of chondrogenesis-related markers in the presence of IL-1ß by inducing autophagy. 3-Benzyl-5-((2-nitrophenoxy)methyl)-dihydrofuran-2(3H)-one (3BDO), a new activator of mTOR, inhibited autophagy and increased the expression of p-GSK3ßser9 and ß-catenin, simulating the effect of IL-1ß stimulation. Furthermore, rapamycin reduced the expression of mTOR, whereas the promotion of LC3-II/LC3-I was blocked by the GSK3ß inhibitor TWS119. Taken together, these results indicate that rapamycin enhances the chondrogenesis of SMSCs by inducing autophagy, and GSK3ß may be an important regulator in the process of rapamycin-induced autophagy. Thus, inducing autophagy may be a useful approach in the chondrogenic differentiation of SMSCs in the inflammatory microenvironment and may represent a novel TMD treatment.

Efectividad de la magnetoterapia en pacientes con trastornos de la articulación temporomandibular / Effectiveness of magnetotherapy in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders

Introducción: Los trastornos temporomandibulares constituyen un conjunto de condiciones musculoesqueléticas que afectan la articulación temporomandibular, los músculos de la masticación y las estructuras anatómicas adyacentes. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad de la magnetoterapia en pacientes con trastornos de la articulación temporomandibular. Métodos: Se realizó una intervención terapéutica en la Clínica Estomatológica Provincial Docente Mártires del Moncada de Santiago de Cuba, desde junio de 2016 hasta febrero de 2019. La muestra quedó constituida por 132 pacientes distribuidos en 2 grupos: A (de estudio) y B (de control), quienes recibieron tratamientos con magneto (N=66) y convencional, respectivamente. Se analizaron variables, tales como sexo, edad, grado de trastorno de la articulación temporomandibular y efectividad terapéutica. Se empleó el porcentaje como medida de resumen y el estadígrafo de Ji al cuadrado con un nivel de significación de 0,05. Resultados: Predominaron el sexo femenino (69,7 %) y el grupo etario de 40 - 49 años (51,5 %). Al finalizar el tratamiento se observó que en el grupo A la respuesta fue efectiva en más de 90,0 % de los pacientes; sin embargo, en el grupo B solo se logró en un poco más de 70,0 %. Conclusiones: La magnetoterapia resultó efectiva en pacientes con trastornos de la articulación temporomandibular.

Introduction: The temporomandibular disorders constitute a group of musculo skeletal conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint, the masticatory muscles and the adjacent anatomical structures. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the magnetotherapy in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders. Method: A therapeutic intervention was carried out in Mártires del Moncada Teaching Provincial Stomatologic Clinic in Santiago de Cuba, from June, 2016 to February, 2019. The sample was constituted by 132 patients distributed in 2 groups: A (study) and B (control) who received treatments with magneto (N=66) and conventional, respectively. Some variables were analyzed, such as sex, age, degree of the temporomandibular joint disorder and therapeutic effectiveness. The percentage as summary measure and the chi-square test with a significance level of 0.05 were used. Results: There was a prevalence of the female sex (69.7 %) and the 40 - 49 age group (51.5 %). When concluding the treatment it was observed that in group A the response was effective in more than 90.0 % of the patients; however, in group B it was achieved just in a little more than 70.0 %. Conclusions: The magnetotherapy was effective in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders.

Feline skull injuries: Treatment goals and recommended approaches.

PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: Skull trauma in cats, which includes fractures of the mandible and maxilla, as well as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions, is frequently encountered in general practice. CLINICAL APPROACH: Head trauma requires immediate attention and the initial approach should be focused on stabilisation of the patient and evaluation of the major body systems, including respiratory and cardiovascular assessment, and neurological and ophthalmic examination. The head, oral occlusion and the patient's ability to open and close the mouth should be carefully evaluated. Once the cat is stable enough for anaesthesia, diagnostic imaging is essential to assess for skull injuries. Radiography may be helpful, although some conditions may be difficult to visualise due to soft tissue and bony structure superimposition. CT is a more sensitive technique for detecting skull injuries. TREATMENT GOALS AND TECHNIQUES: A variety of stabilisation techniques have been described in the feline patient, and repair goals focus on restoration of the animal's oral function, while ensuring adequate dental occlusion, minimal invasiveness and morbidity, and pain relief. Surgical repair of mandibular and maxillary fractures may variously involve interdental wiring, interarcade wiring or suture, use of interfragmentary wires, plate and screw fixation, external skeletal fixation and use of dental acrylic. Decision-making with regard to treatment options depends on dental occlusion, type and location of the fracture, fracture stability and pain. AIM: This review, directed at general practitioners working with cats, describes the relevant anatomy of the feline skull, the most common mandibular, maxillary and TMJ conditions, and their recommended management.

Temporomandibular joint damage in K/BxN arthritic mice.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease affecting 1% of the world population and is characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints sometimes accompanied by extra-articular manifestations. K/BxN mice, originally described in 1996 as a model of polyarthritis, exhibit knee joint alterations. The aim of this study was to describe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammation and damage in these mice. We used relevant imaging modalities, such as micro-magnetic resonance imaging (µMRI) and micro-computed tomography (µCT), as well as histology and immunofluorescence techniques to detect TMJ alterations in this mouse model. Histology and immunofluorescence for Col-I, Col-II, and aggrecan showed cartilage damage in the TMJ of K/BxN animals, which was also evidenced by µCT but was less pronounced than that seen in the knee joints. µMRI observations suggested an increased volume of the upper articular cavity, an indicator of an inflammatory process. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) isolated from the TMJ of K/BxN mice secreted inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-1ß) and expressed degradative mediators such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). K/BxN mice represent an attractive model for describing and investigating spontaneous damage to the TMJ, a painful disorder in humans with an etiology that is still poorly understood.

The effect of celecoxib in traumatic heterotopic ossification around temporomandibular joint in mice.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, the role of inflammation in traumatic heterotopic ossification around temporomandibular joint (THO-TMJ), as well as the preventive and treatment effect of celecoxib in THO-TMJ both in vivo and in vitro were explored. DESIGN: A surgically-induced THO-TMJ mouse model and a co-culture model of ATDC-5 or MC3T3-E1 and RAW-264.7 cells were used in this study for in vivo and in vitro research. RESULTS: A series of inflammatory factors, such as CD3, CD68, CD20, IL-10, IL-6 and TNF-α, were activated 48 h after trauma in a THO-TMJ model. Local trauma initiated systemic inflammatory responses as well as T cell- and macrophage-mediated local inflammatory responses around TMJ. In addition, expression of COX-2 was significantly elevated. The findings also showed that local injection of celecoxib could effectively alleviate the inflammatory response around TMJ at the early stage of trauma and inhibit the formation of THO-TMJ in vivo. Meanwhile, celecoxib could inhibit chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC-5 and osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 under inflammatory condition in vitro. Furthermore, celecoxib could inhibit the expression of Bmpr1b in the injured condylar cartilage at the initiation stage of THO-TMJ, which implied that Bmpr1b expressed by the residual condylar cartilage might be related to the pathogenesis of THO-TMJ. CONCLUSIONS: Inflammation played a crucial role in the pathogenesis of THO-TMJ, and anti-inflammation might be a possible choice to inhibit THO-TMJ, which provided scientific clues for the mechanisms, pharmacotherapy and molecular intervention of THO-TMJ.

Temporomandibular joint dislocation after an upper endoscopy: a complication to consider.

After observing a case of a temporomandibular joint dislocation after an upper endoscopy, we carried out a literature review to find out how frequent it is and suggest the sedation as a possible risk factor to such complication.

Endovascular preoperative embolization for temporomandibular joint replacement surgery.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: This retrospective study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of preoperative endovascular embolization in patients who underwent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We included all patients treated with preoperative embolization of the internal maxillary artery (IMAX) between June 2016 and January 2019. All patients were treated by the same surgeon using standard surgical approaches and procedures. Periprocedural adverse events, blood loss during surgery and clinical follow-up are reported. RESULTS: Fourteen patients (12 females, median age 32.5) were treated with 21 embolizations of the IMAX (bilateral embolizations in seven patients) prior to TMJ replacement surgery with prosthetic joints (TMJ Concepts prostheses). Seven patients presented with TMJ ankylosis/degenerative joint disease/post-trauma deformity, four patients with Idiopathic Condylar Resorption and resultant mandibular displacement/hypoplasia, two patients with rheumatoid arthritis-associated condylar degeneration and resultant loss of mandibular position, and 1 patient being re-reconstructed following management of a prosthetic joint infection. Seven patients underwent bilateral prosthetic joint replacement. Four patients underwent additional facial skeletal surgery as part of their treatment. The mean blood volume loss during TMJ surgery was approximately 370 cc (range 100-800 cc). Joint space-specific blood loss was not recorded, but, as per the surgical team, was significantly decreased when compared to non-embolized patients. There were no intra-procedural complications. The median clinical follow-up was 3.5 months (range 1-24 months). The modified Rankin scale (mRS) was 0 before the procedure and at last clinical follow-up in all patients. After TMJ surgery, three patients reported paresthesia of the trigeminal nerve likely related to the residual condyle resection and two patients had mild facial nerve weakness (Temporal and/or Marginal Mandibular branch) related to the surgical exposures. CONCLUSION: Endovascular preoperative embolization of the IMAX is feasible, safe and likely effective in reducing blood volume loss in complex TMJ replacement surgery.