Arthrocentesis of the TMJ

Arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat many disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The popularity of this procedure is followed by the success of arthroscopic surgical procedures with the initial application for the treatment of disc displacement, without reduction. Since that time, arthrocentesis has been described for other clinical indications; however, it is not indicated for all joint disorders. The procedure does not change the shape or position of the disc or the structure of the mandibular condyle and glenoid fossa. Pathology involving bony degeneration, osteophytes and bone spicules, disc perforation, or fibro-osseous ankylosis is not amendable to arthrocentesis. Treatment is generally necessary when other non-surgical and pharmacologic methods have failed.

Is this painful? 

The type of pain associated with TMJ is multifaceted. Possible sources of pain include impingement, compression, and inflammatory changes in the retrodiscal tissues; inflammatory changes in the synovial membrane with joint effusion; and capsulitis. Biochemical investigations of TMJ synovial fluid obtained through arthroscopic lavage and arthrocentesis have yielded information regarding the pathophysiology of pain in the TMJ. Lavage and lysis of the joint space allow for the removal and dilution of inflammatory mediators, which may contribute to the reduction of pain. Elevated protein levels in synovial fluid parallel the degree of inflammation because of the increased permeability of the synovial membrane to plasma proteins. Joint effusion detected on T ₂ -weighted magnetic resonance images reflects hypertrophic synovial lining and exudation from inflamed tissues. Joint effusion is observed in joints at a more advanced degree of internal derangement.

What Steps Are Taken Beforehand?

Before arthrocentesis is performed, patients must undergo appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning. This is based on medical history, visual analog pain scales (if indicated), and clinical and radiographic findings. Clinical examination should include interincisal opening, lateral excursions, and deviation on opening, along with documentation of any occlusal discrepancies.  Auscultation of the joint may be performed to ascertain any clicks or crepitus, which may indicate disc displacement or degenerative joint disease. Radiographic imaging would initially include a panoramic screening film followed by other appropriately marked imaging modalities including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or nuclear medicine studies.  Non-surgical management for internal derangement without reduction improves symptoms comparably to surgical intervention; however, improvement takes a longer time.