Arthrocentesis: A Minimally Invasive Approach for Temporomandibular Joint Pain

Abstract

The aim of this article is to provide emergency care to the diseased temporomandibular joint (TMJ) when conservative methods have failed to do so and to increase mouth opening, especially in cases of closed lock.Our study was carried out on 18 healthy adult individuals who reported to our institute complaining of pain in one or both TMJs and restricted mouth opening. Mouth opening of each patient was recorded in mm prior to the procedure and pain recorded on a visual analog scale (VAS).Arthrocentesis was performed using 100 cc of Lactated Ringers solution on these individuals after conservative management of these individuals failed, followed by injection of Dexamethasone in the superior joint space. Pain was once again recorded on a VAS and mouth opening in mm 1 day after the procedure, then after 1 week, 1, 3 and 6 months.In this sample, mean mouth opening (MMO) prior to the procedure was 24.3 mm (SD ± 3.114), ranging from 18 to 30 mm. MMO postarthrocentesis was 37.85 mm (SD ± 7.457), ranging from 28 to 55 mm.From this study, the following conclusions may be drawn:Arthrocentesis is an effective mode of treatment for closed lock of the TMJ when conservative methods have failed. Mouth opening is seen to increase in patients with restricted mouth opening due to closed lock of the TMJ. It provides instant relief from pain and has long lasting effects.