How Jaw Reconstruction Restored a 5-Year-Old’s Smile and Childhood
At KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, a remarkable transformation has taken place for a young boy who had lived his entire childhood with severe limitations. Five-year-old Arav (name changed) was diagnosed with Temporo-Mandibular Joint (TMJ) Ankylosis, a rare condition where the jaw joint fuses to the skull base. Since infancy, he was unable to open his mouth—making it difficult to eat solid food, speak clearly, or sleep comfortably. The condition also caused significant facial deformity, impacting his social interactions.
A New Smile, A New Life: Jaw Surgery Restores Childhood for 5-Year-Old at KMC Hospital, Mangaluru
Click on this for the original report on Daijiworld
Under the leadership of Dr Abhay T. Kamath, Consultant Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, the Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at KMC Hospital performed a life-changing, multistage surgical reconstruction to restore Arav’s ability to live like any other child.
Click on this for the original report on Hosagantha (Kannada)
A Complex Treatment Journey
The surgical plan involved two major stages:
• Stage 1 – Jaw Lengthening:
An external distractor was surgically placed and gradually activated over several months, allowing the lower jaw to grow to a functional length.
• Stage 2 – Releasing the Fusion:
After 10 months, the ankylosis mass was released, followed by costochondral grafting to restore joint function and facial form.
This extensive procedure was made possible through coordinated teamwork involving Dr Abhay, Dr Adarsh K (MCODS, Manipal), Dr Vasudev Das, Dr Soundarya (Paediatrics), Dr Frida (Anaesthesia), and Dr Madhav Kamath (CTVS), who performed the rib grafting.
A Transformative Outcome
Today, Arav can chew his food, speak clearly, sleep comfortably, and smile with confidence. His facial symmetry has improved significantly, and with it, his ability to interact freely with the world around him.
Reflecting on the journey, Dr Abhay shared, “We have not only revived his smile but renewed his outlook towards life.” He emphasized that the success is not just surgical—it is also a testament to Arav’s courage and endurance throughout the year-long process.
Dr Soundarya added, “To watch him rediscover the joy of eating, interacting and being a child again has been deeply fulfilling.”
About Manipal Hospitals
Manipal Hospitals is one of India’s leading healthcare networks, serving over 8 million patients annually. With a presence across 49 hospitals in 24 cities, it is committed to providing safe, advanced, and high-quality care. Most of its facilities are NABH, NABL, and AAHRPP accredited, reflecting its focus on excellence.
Click on this for the original report on Hosagantha (Kannada)