Advances in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders

The management of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunctions has evolved significantly in recent decades with the development of minimally invasive surgical techniques and customised prostheses. Arthrocentesis and arthroscopy stood out for their efficacy in the treatment of mild and moderate pathologies. Arthrocentesis, described by Nitzan, allowed inflammatory products to be removed and the joint disc to be released in a quick and minimally invasive procedure, improving mobility and reducing pain. Arthroscopy offered direct visualisation of the joint, facilitating the diagnosis and treatment of more complex cases. Advanced procedures, such as the triangulation technique, extended its usefulness in the management of disc dislocations and adhesions. In severe cases, such as ankylosis or structural deformities, customised prostheses became the best option. These prostheses, designed with CAD/CAM technology, guaranteed a precise anatomical fit and significant functional improvement. However, their implementation was limited to patients where minimally invasive options were insufficient due to their surgical complexity and associated costs. Advances in biocompatible materials, such as titanium alloys and PEEK, improved the durability and osseointegration of prostheses, optimising long-term outcomes. This technological and medical progress allowed for a more tailored and effective approach to treating TMJ dysfunctions, improving patients' quality of life and reducing complications. Appropriate treatment selection according to severity and individual characteristics was key to therapeutic success.