Temporomandibular joint dislocation: experiences from Zaria, Nigeria

• Published in: Journal of the Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Vol. 40; no. 3; pp. 111 - 116
• Main Authors: Agbara, Rowland, Fomete, Benjamin, Obiadazie, Athanasius Chukwudi, Idehen, Kelvin, Okeke, Uche
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korea (South) 대한구강악안면외과학회 01.06.2014; Korean Association Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeons; The Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
• Subjects: Original; 치의학; Temporomandibular joint; Zaria; Yawning; Dislocations
• ISSN: 2234-7550; 2234-5930
• DOI: 10.5125/jkaoms.2014.40.3.111

Dislocation of the temporomandibular joint may occur for various reasons. Although different invasive methods have been advocated for its treatment, this study highlights the value of non-invasive treatment options even in chronic cases in a resource-poor environment. A seven-year retrospective analysis of all patients managed for temporomandibular joint dislocation in our department was undertaken. Patient demographics, risk factors associated with temporomandibular joint dislocation and treatment modalities were retrieved from patient records. In all, 26 patients were managed over a seven-year period. Males accounted for 62% of the patients, and yawning was the most frequent etiological factor. Conservative treatment methods were used successfully in 86.4% of the patients managed. Two (66.7%) of the three patients who needed surgical treatment developed complications, while only one (5.3%) patient who was managed conservatively developed complications. Temporomandibular joint dislocation appears to be associated with male sex, middle age, yawning, and low socio-economic status, although these observed relationships were not statistically significant. Non-invasive methods remain an effective treatment option in this environment in view of the low socio-economic status of the patients affected.