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.
Citations
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.
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.
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.
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.
