External Auditory Canal Stenosis Secondary to Synovial Chondromatosis of the Temporomandibular Joint: A Case Report and Literature Review

Synovial chondromatosis is a rare, slow-growing condition with nonspecific symptoms, making early diagnosis difficult. It generally affects the superior joint space of the temporomandibular joint and, in advanced stages, can cause destruction of the glenoid fossa and invasion of adjacent structures. To report the first case of synovial chondromatosis associated with stenosis of the external auditory canal, with predominant involvement of the inferior joint space and atypical presentation. The patient required open temporomandibular joint surgery, in which endoscopically assisted open surgery was considered to improve visualization of the medial pole of the condyle and allow complete resection of the lesion. The atypical presentation and involvement of neighboring structures highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and the use of combined surgical approaches in advanced cases.