Parekejiang Pataer, Meng Wang, Yuting Jiang, Zhongcheng Gong
ObjectiveTo retrospectively compare the efficacy of open disc repositioning with anchor fixation versus suturing fixation for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) anterior disc displacement without reduction (ADDWoR).MethodsIn this single-centre retrospective cohort study, a total of 121 patients (178 joints) with ADDWoR who underwent open TMJ disc repositioning were divided into Group A (anchor fixation; 64 patients, 92 joints) and Group B (suturing fixation; 57 patients, 86 joints). Baseline characteristics, condylar resorption severity, and postoperative complications were compared between groups. Disc length, condylar height, maximum interincisal opening (MIO), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score, and craniomandibular index (CMI) were assessed preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively. Disc repositioning effectiveness and postoperative condylar bone changes were also evaluated.ResultsNo significant baseline differences were observed between groups in demographics, disease duration, affected side, MIO, VAS, CMI, condylar resorption, disc length, or condylar height (all P > 0.05). At 1 year, both groups showed significant improvements in MIO, VAS, CMI, disc length, and condylar height compared with preoperative values (all P < 0.001). No significant intergroup differences were found in complication rates, MIO, VAS, CMI, disc repositioning effectiveness, or disc length/Δdisc length (all P > 0.05). However, the 1-year condylar height/Δcondylar height was significantly greater in Group B than in Group A (P < 0.05), and a higher proportion of joints showed new condylar bone formation in Group B (P = 0.007).ConclusionBoth anchor and suturing fixation yielded favourable outcomes for TMJ disc repositioning. Suturing fixation may be associated with greater condylar bone remodeling; however, as an observational study, these findings can only be considered hypothesis-generating and require confirmation through prospective studies.