External pterygoid myotomy for recurrent mandibular dislocation. Review of the literature and report of a case.

Dislocation of the temporomandibular joint is a condition that requires immediate attention. Several conservative methods are effective in the treatment of the acute episode, but surgical treatment is indicated for chronic dislocation. Many, sometimes conflicting, procedures have been proposed for the surgical treatment of chronic dislocation. Comprehensive review and analysis of the literature reveals that this confusion is generated by a poor understanding of the etiology of chronic dislocation. External pterygoid myotomy is recommended as the surgical treatment of choice since it eliminates the forces responsible for pulling the mandible into the dislocated position. A case is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of this procedure.