Temporomandibular joint reconstruction after failed teflon-proplast implant: case report and literature review

Multiple reports document that a foreign-body giant cell reaction forms around Proplast-Teflon temporomandibular joint (TMJ) implants. This results in destruction of surrounding bone and instability of the implants. This case presents a patient whose Proplast-Teflon TMJ implants became displaced into her middle cranial fossa. The staged reconstruction of this patient is described, including removal of the TMJ implants, reconstruction of the defect, concomitant orthodontic treatment and final reconstruction with TMJ Concepts (R). This process involved a multidisciplinary approach between several medical and dental specialties. At her 3-year follow up, the patient had a stable postoperative result.