Complications from mandibular dislocation and reduction are rare.
Complications of dislocation
Chronic recurrent anterior dislocations can result in injury to the joint capsule and degenerative disease of the joint space.
Injury to the external carotid and facial nerve can result.
Posterior dislocations can injure the external auditory canal.
Deafness can result from damage to the auditory canals and surrounding structures.
Superior dislocations have been associated with cerebral contusion, CNS deficits, and seventh and eighth cranial nerve injury.
Complications of reduction
Iatrogenic fracture of the mandibular condyle may occur as it passes under the articular eminence.
The physician’s thumbs may be injured as a consequence of rapid jaw closure with reduction.
Prognosis
The prognosis for most isolated mandibular dislocations is good but varies based on the type of dislocation.
Acute anterior mandibular dislocations carry an excellent prognosis with few cases that progress to chronic recurrent dislocation.
Lateral dislocations are often associated with fractures and require open reduction.
Posttraumatic ankylosis is possible for dislocations with displaced condylar fractures.
Posterior dislocations occasionally require fixation of the external auditory canal and may result in hearing deficits.
Superior dislocations and those unreducible by a closed technique require emergent consultation by an oromaxillofacial surgeon and should be assessed for damage to the surrounding cranial nerves and cerebral structures.
Slight facial asymmetry and lack of development of the mandibular ramus have been reported in long-term follow-up of a case of pediatric superior mandible dislocation.
Patient Education
Patients should be instructed to avoid opening their mouths widely to prevent recurrent dislocation.
