Ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint as a complication of forceps delivery: report of a case.

A two and half years old girl presented with severe limitation of mouth opening, facial asymmetry, inability to masticate, and proclination of the anterior maxillary and mandibular teeth. There was no history of facial trauma, infection or neonatal fevers. A diagnosis of bony ankylosis of the TMJ was made following a confirmation of delivery by means of obstetrics forceps during a difficult labour. The causes of TMJ ankylosis and the sequaele are highlighted.