Evaluation of an improved anchoring nail in temporomandibular joint disc repositioning surgery: A prospective study of 25 patients

To confirm the effectiveness and stability of an improved anchoring nail through a prospective study using clinical evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Patients undergoing TMJ disc reduction and fixation were followed up for 1 year.Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and TMJ range of motion (maximum interincisal opening, protrusive excursion, lateral excursion) data were gathered pre- and postoperatively, and patient satisfaction was recorded. Four time points were investigated: before surgery (T0), 1 month post-surgery (T1), 6 months post-surgery (T2), and 1 year post-surgery (T3). Twenty-five patients (50 joints) participated in the study. The overall success rates of the improved and traditional anchoring nails were 88% and 92%, respectively. One year post-surgery, the patients’ TMJ motion improved significantly (p