Case report
Bilateral temporomandibular joint dislocation in a 29-year-old man: a case report
1 University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, Clifford Bridge Road, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
2 University of Leicester Medical School, Maurice Shock Building, PO Box 138, University Road, Leicester, LE1 9HN, UK
Journal of Medical Case Reports 2010, 4:263 doi:10.1186/1752-1947-4-263
Published: 10 August 2010Abstract
Introduction
A dislocation of the temporomandibular joint represents three percent of all reported dislocated joints.
The treatment entails reduction of the deformity and this can often be achieved in a ward setting.
Case presentation
We present the case of a 29-year-old Caucasian man with a non-traumatic bilateral anterior temporomandibular joint dislocation. Following several unsuccessful attempts, due to both inadequate patient analgesia and sedation, joint reduction had to be performed in theatre with the patient under general anesthesia.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of providing the patient with adequate analgesia and sedation when attempting the reduction of temporomandibular joint dislocations.
