Use of Human Amniotic Membrane as an Interpositional Material in Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis

Purpose: The aim of the study was to demonstrate whether the human amniotic membrane (HAM) as an interpositional material could prevent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reankylosis in the randomized rabbit model. Materials and Methods: In our experimental study, 24 New Zealand white rabbits were used and all right joints were operated. The rabbits were divided into 2 groups. The first group was specified as the demonstration group (n = 8). In this group, fibrous ankylosis formation was shown experimentally. The rabbits in the second group, the treatment group (n = 16), were divided into 2 subgroups: gap arthroplasty, performed in group A (n = 8); and HAM, used as an interpositional arthroplasty material in group B (n = 8). Results: In all rabbits, the range of jaw movements and weight decreased after induction of ankylosis. After surgical treatment of fibrous ankylosis, the vertical, right, and left movements of the jaw and weights of rabbits increased immediately. The results were evaluated clinically, macroscopically, histologically, and radiologically. There was a statistically significant difference in the jaw movements between groups A and B (P < .05). All operated joints in group A showed fibrous adhesions across the gap, and the articular surface was irregular with osteophytes and bony islands on the joint surface. In group B, no fibrous adhesions were observed. Conclusion: It was concluded that interpositional arthroplasty with HAM was superior to gap arthroplasty in the rabbit model in preventing ankylosis. (C) 2011 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 69:e58-e66, 2011