Role of Coronoid Process in Reconstruction of Temporomandibular Joint

This article reports the role of coronoid process as a free graft and pedicled graft in reconstruction of temporomandibular joint in ankylosis cases. The cases treated were observed clinic-radiologically over a period of 12 months. Various autogenous and alloplastic materials used for reconstruction of TMJ were considered with their advantages and limitations. The use of coronid process for reconstruction of the nose, orbital floor, alveolar ridge and paranasal augmentation has been reported by various authors. Due to its shape and size coronoid process is not a popular option for TMJ reconstruction. The advantage of using coronoid graft is autogenous bone of intramembranous origin harvested through same surgical site. Possibility of graft resorption can be minimized when used as pedicled graft. Postoperative radiograph revealed complete uptake and remodeling of the graft when used both as free and pedicled graft. There was no failure of treatment in terms of reankylosis. Therefore, coronoid process may be a suitable bone resource for condylar reconstruction in patients with TMJ ankylosis.