Reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint using a vascularized medial femoral condyle osteocartilaginous flap: an experimental investigation in miniature pigs

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a significant challenge in maxillofacial surgery. A vascularized medial femoral condyle (MFC) osteocartilaginous flap is a good choice for TMJ reconstruction. In this study, we evaluated the radiographic and histological changes of MFC after TMJ reconstruction. METHODS: A ramus-condyle unit (RCU) defect was created unilaterally in five adult male Bama miniature pigs. The ipsilateral vascularized MFC osteocartilaginous flap was used to reconstruct the TMJ, and the non-operative sides served as controls. Multislice spiral computed tomography (CT) was performed preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at two weeks, three months, and six months postoperatively. Three animals were euthanized at 6 months postoperatively. Their reconstructed condyles, natural condyles and the MFCs on the opposite side were collected and subjected to µCT and histological evaluation. RESULTS: In the miniature pigs, the vascularized MFC osteocartilaginous flap was fused to the mandible, thus restoring the structure and function of the RCU. The postoperative radiographic changes and histological results showed that the reconstructed condyle was remodeled toward the natural condyle, forming a similar structure, which was significantly different from the MFC. CONCLUSIONS: In miniature pigs, the RCU can be successfully reconstructed by vascularized osteocartilaginous MFC flap. The reconstructed condyle had almost the same appearance and histological characteristics as the natural condyle. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12903-023-03341-z.