Dautery’s procedure for the management of recurrent TMJ dislocation

Abstract

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation is an involuntary forward movement of the mandible beyond the articular eminence with the condyle remaining stuck in the anterior-most position which leaves the patient unable to close her mouth. Various methods have been described in literature for the management of TMJ dislocation in patients where conservative measures are not successful and need surgical intervention. This case report highlights outcome of Dautrey’s method of surgical correction in case of recurrent bilateral TMJ dislocation. The patient had history of manual reduction of lock jaw in the past . Orthopantomogram confirmed anterior dislocation of condyles beyond articular eminence. Dautrey’s procedure was performed, patient showed marked improvement in pain and TMJ function with no relapse at 1 month follow up. Post-operative mouth opening became normal in the patient at 1 month follow up. No episode of pain, clicking, deviation or TMJ dislocation was seen in follow up period of 1 year . Hence, Dautery’s procedure serves as an effective management option for recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation.