Temporomandibular joint total replacement using the Zimmer Biomet Microfixation patient-matched prosthesis results in reduced pain and improved function

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate pain and maximum interincisal opening (MIO) in patients treated with the Zimmer Biomet Microfixation patient-matched alloplastic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prosthesis. Study Design. We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients who had undergone bilateral or unilateral TMJ total joint replacement (TJR). The primary outcome variables were pain and MIO, which were measured at various time points between 12 and greater than 60 months. Secondary outcomes included perceived masticatory efficiency and patient satisfaction. Results. A total of 33 patients (62 joints) met the inclusion criteria for the study. The relationship between time and the change in pain scores, although significant immediately after surgery in an unadjusted model, was not statistically significant in an adjusted model. A statistically significant improvement between time and MIO was noted in both adjusted and unadjusted models. The majority of patients (91%) reported subjective improvement in their diet. Similarly, 91% of patients felt that TJR was beneficial and, in retrospect, would repeat their decision to undergo TJR. Conclusions. Patients treated with the Zimmer Biomet Microfixation patient-matched TMJ prosthesis experience improvements in pain, MIO, and ability to masticate. Future studies are needed to assess long-term outcomes prospectively.