PGCEE MDS 2022 : Commonest cause of TMJ ankylosis is:

 # Commonest cause of TMJ ankylosis is:

a) Trauma

b) Development disturbances

c) Infections 

d) Atrophy

The correct answer is A. Trauma. 

The definite cause of ankylosis of TMJ is unknown. Two main factors predisposing to the ankylosis are trauma and infection in or around the joint region. In 1968, Topazian reported that 26 to 75 percent of cases of TMJ ankylosis are seen following trauma, while 44 to 68 percent are seen due to infection. 

A high percentage of TMJ ankylosis are seen following trauma. At birth, TMJ may receive trauma from a forceps delivery. Trauma during intrauterine life leads to congenital ankylosis.