Ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint of a child. Report of a case.

An ankylosis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in early childhood may lead to growth disturbances. In the reported case, unilateral ankylosis caused asymmetry and serious difficulties in eating and breathing during sleep. The autologous costochondral junction serving as a growth center, replacing the condylar defect, was used as arthroplastic material in a patient 8 years of age. In a follow-up 6 years later the patient revealed satisfactory opening movements and good chewing function. It was noted that the operated grafted side increased in length slightly more than the other side.