TMJ Total Joint Replacement using the Zimmer Biomet Microfixation patient fitted prosthesis results in reduced pain and improved function

Abstract Objective To evaluate the pain and maximum incisal opening (MIO) of patients treated with the Zimmer Biomet Microfixation patient fitted alloplastic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) prosthesis. Methods The authors implemented 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 months to over 60 months. Secondary outcomes included perceived masticatory efficiency and patient satisfaction. Results A total of 33 patients (62 joints) met 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 is noted in both adjusted and unadjusted models. A majority of patients (91%) reported a subjective improvement in their diet. Similarly, 91% of patients felt that TJR was beneficial and in retrospect, would repeat their decision to undergo TJR. Conclusion Patients treated with the Zimmer Biomet Microfixation patient fitted TMJ prosthesis experience improvements in their pain, MIO and ability to masticate. Future studies are needed to assess long-term outcomes prospectively.