Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy

Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy: Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy is minimally invasive surgery to explore and repair the temporomandibular joint (jaw joint) just anterior to the ear; instead of a large incision in front of the ear, small "keyhole" incisions are made, through which an arthroscope and other instruments are passed to visualize the area microscopically. The joint may be irrigated to flush out any loose pieces of bone or inflamed soft tissue (arthrocentesis).

Diseases And Conditions Treated: Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy

These diseases and conditions may be treated with the surgical procedure Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy:

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis
Temporomandibular joint dislocation
Temporomandibular joint disc herniation
Temporomandibular joint tumor
Temporomandibular joint ankylosis

Non-Surgical Options: Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy

These non-surgical medical options may be possible alternative treatments to performing Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy:

Dietary restrictions
Ice pack
Avoiding excessive jaw widening
Physical therapy
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication
Bite guard

Other Surgical Options: Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy

Surgical procedure options to consider as an alternative for Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy may include these surgeries:

Temporomandibular joint replacement

Anesthetic Requirements for Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy

These surgical anesthetic requirements for the procedure Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy may include:

General anesthesia

Procedure Complications: Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy

Possible surgical complications of Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy may include:

Bleeding
Infection
Swelling
Adverse reaction to anesthesia
Cranial nerve damage
Partial hearing loss
Vertigo
Pain
Dietary restrictions (e.g. soft diet)
Occlusal splint

Prognosis for a Good Outcome: Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy

The prognosis for a good medical outcome: The prognosis is good for reducing or eliminating pain; however, full recovery may take several months.