An arthroscopy is a surgical technique in which a very small camera is introduced into a joint to see its interior in detail. In addition, it allows the introduction of substances such as corticoids, hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma, and gives the possibility of eliminating adhesions, repositioning the articular disc and eliminating synovial inflammation, among others.
Does the temporomandibular joint leave a scar?
The scar is indistinguishable from a mole, in most cases imperceptible, due to the small size of the chamber: 1’9mm in diameter.
The temporomandibular joint arthroscopy approach
This type of intervention can be performed under sedation, although experts in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Maxilosur prefer to apply general anesthesia to eliminate the discomfort of manipulation of the joint during surgery.
Recovery time after surgery
The recovery time varies from patient to patient, but usually within a maximum of one week the patient can be doing a normal life.
What is arthroscopy for?
Arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint is indicated in almost all stages of joint disorders.
It is especially useful in cases of limited oral opening and joint pain, and is more effective the earlier the treatment is performed because the tissues are less inflamed and manipulation of them is easier.
It also serves as a diagnostic tool in cases in which it is not possible to eliminate joint pain with conservative measures.
How do you know if arthroscopy is beneficial for the patient?
In general, a clinical examination by an expert professional is sufficient, but an MRI is required to confirm the diagnosis of joint pathology.
Is arthroscopy sufficient?
Unfortunately, in most patients there is a variable degree of involvement of the masticatory musculature. This musculature is affected to “protect” the joint. Specialized physiotherapeutic treatment will therefore be necessary in order to free this musculature.
Arthroscopy makes it possible to visualize the position of the articular disc in relation to the articular eminence of the temporal bone. The avascular disc should look like the image on the left, pearly white under the white of the eminence, with the insertion of the posterior retrodiscal tissue. When the disc is advanced and out of place, disc replacement can be performed and all vessels of the inflamed retrodiscal tissue can be coagulated to eliminate the secretion of chemical pain mediators.