Mangaluru: A five-year-old boy, Arav (name changed), has received a renewed lease of life following a complex multistage surgery performed by the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at KMC Hospital, Ambedkar Circle. The procedure, led by Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Dr Abhay T. Kamath, successfully treated temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis, a rare condition that had prevented the child from opening his mouth since infancy.

A challenging condition affecting growth and daily life

Arav had lived for five years without the ability to open his mouth due to TMJ ankylosis, a condition in which the jaw joint fuses with the skull base. This severely restricted his ability to eat solid food, speak clearly, and sleep comfortably. The condition also caused significant facial deformity due to an underdeveloped lower jaw, resulting in social stigma and distress for the young child.

Multistage reconstruction offers new hope

The surgical team, led by Dr Abhay T. Kamath, included Dr Adarsh K., Prof. & Head of OMFS, MCODS, Manipal; Dr Vasudev Das, KMC Mangaluru; Dr Soundarya, Paediatrician; Dr Frida, Department of Anaesthesia; and Dr Madhav Kamath, Consultant CTVS, KMCH, who performed the costochondral grafting.

The treatment plan involved two intricate stages:

  • Stage 1: Placement of an external distractor to gradually lengthen the underdeveloped lower jaw over several months.
  • Stage 2: Performed 10 months later, involving the release of the ankylosed joint mass and reconstruction with grafting.

As a result, Arav now eats, speaks, and interacts freely, reclaiming the joys of childhood.

Doctors reflect on a life-changing transformation

Dr Abhay T. Kamath expressed deep satisfaction, stating that the surgical journey was as much about the child’s courage as it was about medical innovation.
“We have not only revived his smile but also renewed his outlook towards life,” he said. “The success of such complex surgery lies not just with the medical team but with the endurance, hope, and trust shown by the young boy and his family.”

Paediatrician Dr Soundarya added that timely, coordinated care has completely transformed Arav’s life. “Watching him rediscover the joy of eating, interacting, and simply being a child again has been deeply fulfilling,” she said.

About Manipal Hospitals

Manipal Hospitals, one of India’s leading healthcare providers, serves over eight million patients annually. With a network of 49 hospitals across 24 cities, 12,600 licensed beds, more than 11,000 doctors, and over 34,000 employees, the institution is committed to delivering high-quality and accessible healthcare. Most centres under the network are accredited by NABH, NABL, and AAHRPP, reflecting its focus on excellence in clinical care, safety, and patient experience.