Preface

*Temporomandibular Joint - Surgical Reconstruction and Managements* brings together the knowledge, skill and experience of a range of experts in the surgical and therapeutic management of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Cranio-maxillofacial surgeons have contributed a new understanding of diseases of this unique joint, and researchers are continually working on new techniques for their management.

In this book, we describe the embryology, development and growth of TMJ, together with its anatomy, physiology and growth theories. As well as surgical reconstruction of the TMJ, the book covers recent advances in the management of the most difficult cases of TMJ disease including ankylosis of the TMJ in both adults and children. Other diseases described include first arch syndrome, in which deficient growth and malformation of the face require a series of operations, and condylar hypoplasia, in which an iliac crest graft is used for the restoration of growth, repair and remodeling of the TMJ in children (Kummoona Chondro-Osseous Graft). Subluxation and dislocation, internal derangements of the disc, and recent advances in acute and chronic management of the osteoarthritic disease are also described. Pain in the TMJ and methods of differentiating it from other chronic facial pain are discussed. Diagnostic tools such as an electronic stethoscope for the detection of disc movements, biomechanics of the joint and orthodontic treatments for the correction of the TMJ are also covered.

This book will be useful for neurosurgeons, oral, maxillofacial, craniofacial, and ENT surgeons, and for postgraduate students.

I would like to extend my thanks to Mirena Calmic, Commissioning Editor at IntechOpen, for her kind invitation to edit this volume, to Blanka Gugic, Author Service Manager, for all her efforts, and to everyone who has made this book possible by working on its preparation, printing and publication.

> **Raja Kummoona** Emeritus Professor of Maxillofacial Surgery, Iraqi Board for Medical Specializations, Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq

**1**

Section 1

Introduction

Section 1 Introduction
