Coronoidectomy
Pronunciation: core-oh-noy-DECK-toe-mee
Surgical removal of the coronoid process of the mandible to treat ankylosis or improve mouth opening in trismus cases.
Full Definition
Coronoidectomy is a surgical procedure involving partial or complete removal of the coronoid process of the mandible to address mechanical limitation of mouth opening. This procedure is indicated when the coronoid process interferes with mouth opening due to ankylosis, hyperplasia, or post-traumatic changes. The surgery may be performed via intraoral or extraoral approaches, with careful attention to avoiding injury to the temporal muscle insertion and nearby neurovascular structures. Coronoidectomy is often combined with other procedures such as TMJ arthroscopy or condylectomy in complex cases. Post-operative physiotherapy is essential to maintain improved mouth opening and prevent recurrent limitation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify unilateral versus bilateral and approach (intraoral/extraoral) in surgical documentation.
In Context
- "Bilateral coronoidectomy was performed to address the patient's severe trismus following mandibular fracture treatment." — Reconstructive surgery report
- "The coronoidectomy procedure successfully increased maximum mouth opening from 18mm to 35mm." — Post-operative outcome assessment