Surgical treatment of internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint: evaluation of two techniques.

One hundred ten cases of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint were treated by high condylectomy (47) and eminectomy (63) in combination with discorrhaphy and disc repair. Preoperative and postoperative findings (greater than 24 months follow-up) relating to mandibular mobility, pain, and stability of occlusion were compared. Both procedures resulted in a reduction in symptoms, but differences in postoperative findings were observed. Each procedure resulted in increased translation, with eminectomy patients exhibiting greater opening distances at endstage evaluation. In addition, a greater incidence of residual deviation to the affected side occurred in the majority of high condylectomy patients. Although pain was reduced in both groups, less residual pain was observed in the eminectomy group. Alteration in maxillomandibular centric relation was a rare finding, seen only in two high condylectomy patients. Possible factors contributing to these differences are discussed.