Outcomes of total temporomandibular joint replacement: a systematic review

Temporomandibular joint replacement (TMJR) is a reconstructive surgical modality that is available to patients with end-stage temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) that fail conservative treatment. Alloplastic prostheses are either custom-made or stock devices used to restore mandibular function and reduce pain; however, comparative data and long-term outcomes are limited. This systematic review aimed to assess post-surgical functional, pain, and quality-of-life outcomes following alloplastic total TMJR.

We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and institutional databases through March 2025, following PRISMA guidelines, to identify outcomes of alloplastic TMJR. Three reviewers independently screened and extracted the data, and a fourth reviewer resolved discrepancies. Results were summarised narratively because of variability in clinical and methodological approaches. We used ROBINS-I to evaluate study quality and the GRADE system to rate evidence certainty.