Personalized temporomandibular joint endoprostheses – own experience

Background Temporomandibular joint disorders can severely impair mandibular function, aesthetics, and quality of life. When conservative management fails, temporomandibular joint replacement with patient-specific, custom-made prostheses provides a reliable surgical solution. However, the success of such interventions depends not only on surgical precision but also on comprehensive prehabilitation and rehabilitation. Objective This study presents a case series highlighting the critical role of individualized rehabilitation in optimizing outcomes after temporomandibular joint replacement. Materials and methods Three patients with advanced temporomandibular joint pathology, a comminuted condylar fracture, bilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis, and mandibular ameloblastoma, underwent reconstruction with custom implants. Each patient participated in a structured prehabilitation program, including physiotherapy, laser therapy, and myofascial release, followed by an individualized postoperative rehabilitation protocol. Results All patients achieved significant functional recovery, including improved mandibular mobility, mastication, swallowing, and speech, as well as complete pain resolution and restoration of facial symmetry. The multidisciplinary rehabilitation approach was instrumental in accelerating recovery and enhancing quality of life. Conclusion Temporomandibular joint replacement with custom-made prostheses, combined with a protocol-driven prehabilitation and rehabilitation program, ensures optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes. This case series emphasizes that rehabilitation is not an adjunct but an essential, integral component of successful temporomandibular joint reconstruction.