Introduction:

it is of interest for physicians and specialist’s knowledge about the inability of the opening of the oral cavity due to coalitions between the bone and fibrous elements in the glenoid region.

Objective:

to review the literature on the characteristics of this pathology.

Development:

in the first quarter of 2006, in order to perform a non-exhaustive literature review to locate the available information on ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint, a literature search was carried out in Scielo, Medline, Isi Web of Knowlegde and Dialnet, searching as key words: ankylosis (ankylosis) and temporomandibular joint (temporomandibular joint). In addition to the computerized search, a manual search was made among the references of the selected studies.

Conclusions:

the temporomandibular ankylosis is a complex clinical entity, usually annoying for patients given the impossibility of feeding and nourishing adequately, in addition to the deformities that from the aesthetic point of view affects the psychological sphere of the people afflicted. Its treatment is difficult, nevertheless, an adequate attention minimizes the consequences of the complications that can appear as a result of the surgical technique or other factors not related to it. It is recognized that an identification and timely treatment of the problem can favor the good results of medical behavior and the rapid integration of the patient into society.

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