Arthrocentesis for TM disorders

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Arthrocentesis for TM disorders

Arthrocentesis is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who uses needles to withdraw fluid from and/or inject fluid or medication into a joint space. Arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular (TM) joint is used:

• To treat painful and limited jaw movement (hypomobility) or disc displacement that has caused chronic, severe pain. In one study, 94% of people with severe closed lock of the temporomandibular joint gained long-term relief from arthrocentesis (used to wash out the joint area).¹
• As a diagnostic tool, when there is a need to analyze joint fluid for signs of disease.

Arthrocentesis is done using local anesthetic, with or without a sedative. Injection of fluid into the joint can serve to:²

• Wash (lavage) from the joint pain-causing chemicals created by the inflammation process.
• Reduce painful pressure or contact between the disc and bone.
• Enlarge the joint space, making it easier to manipulate the joint gently.

At the end of the procedure, corticosteroids or local anesthetic may be injected into the joint. This can be particularly helpful in cases of rheumatoid arthritis–related TM disorder.

After the procedure, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to control pain, and jaw exercises are started during recovery.

References

Citations

1. Barkin S, Weinberg S (2000). Internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint: The role of arthroscopic surgery and arthrocentesis. Journal of the Canadian Dental Association, 66: 199–203.

2. Tucker MR, Ochs MW (2003). Management of temporomandibular disorders. In LJ Peterson et al., eds., Contemporary Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 4th ed., pp. 672–696. St. Louis: Mosby.

Credits

Last updated:	January 24, 2008
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC