ankylosis
Pronunciation: ang-ki-LOH-sis
Fusion or immobility of a joint, commonly affecting the temporomandibular joint in craniofacial patients.
Full Definition
A pathological condition characterized by the fusion of joint surfaces or severe restriction of joint movement, most commonly affecting the temporomandibular joint in craniofacial surgery contexts. TMJ ankylosis can be fibrous (partial) or bony (complete) and may result from trauma, infection, or congenital conditions. The condition severely limits mouth opening and may cause facial asymmetry, requiring complex surgical reconstruction involving joint release, interpositional grafting, and sometimes mandibular reconstruction.
Usage
Usage note: In craniofacial contexts, usually refers to TMJ ankylosis unless otherwise specified.
In Context
- "The patient presented with severe TMJ ankylosis limiting mouth opening to 5 millimeters." — Clinical presentation
- "Surgical release of ankylosis was performed with costochondral graft reconstruction." — Operative procedure