trismus
Pronunciation: TRIZ-mus
Limited mouth opening or jaw mobility, commonly occurring as a post-operative complication in oral surgery.
Full Definition
Trismus refers to restricted mouth opening or reduced jaw mobility, typically measured as a maximal interincisal opening of less than 35-40mm in adults. In oral surgery, trismus commonly occurs as a post-operative complication following procedures involving the posterior mandible, such as third molar extractions, due to inflammation, muscle spasm, or fibrosis of the muscles of mastication. The condition may be temporary or permanent depending on the underlying cause and can significantly impact eating, speaking, and oral hygiene.
Usage
Usage note: Avoid confusion with tetanus-related lockjaw; in oral surgery context, typically refers to post-operative muscle restriction.
In Context
- "The patient developed moderate trismus following the bilateral third molar extractions." — Post-operative complication note
- "Physical therapy was initiated to address the persistent trismus at the two-week follow-up." — Treatment modification documentation