Bioengineered tissue TMJ TJR

Abstract

One of the major obstacles that have plagued the reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) has been the adverse reactions seen with the use of alloplastic, non-biologic materials. These inert and passive materials, by themselves, do not respond to normal biochemical or biomechanical signals, which are present in situ within the TMJ. The patient, because of the biologic inertness of these materials, must adapt to the material or mechanical device that has been used. This may result in related complications or compromised functional outcome [1]. The main advantage of a tissue engineered TMJ, in contrast, will allow the patient to biologically remodel, overtime, the implanted prosthesis to their own anatomy during functional movements of the jaw per Wolff’s Law, i.e. form and function are related, thus minimizing compromise of function.