Developments of the new instruments for TMJ arthroscopic surgery.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Arthroscopy
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Background:

• Successful temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopic surgery requires a large, clear operating area.
• Safe and accurate scope and cannula positioning is crucial to overcome surgical blind spots.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel instruments to address challenges in TMJ arthroscopic surgery.
• To improve visualization, precision, and efficiency in TMJ arthroscopic procedures.

Main Methods:

• Development of high-resolution, large-diameter scopes.
• Introduction of triangulation instruments for multiple cannulations.
• Utilized needle set-up jigs, step cannulation systems, and two-channel cannulas for narrow joint spaces.
• Employed a fixing jig for simultaneous observation of discal tissue from upper and lower joint spaces during disk suturing.

Main Results:

• Instruments facilitate safe and accurate positioning of scopes and cannulas.
• Enabled effective management of narrow lower joint spaces.
• Allowed for simultaneous observation of discal tissue from both joint spaces.
• Successful application in 37 arthroscopic surgeries demonstrated improved visual fields and significantly shortened surgical times.

Conclusions:

• The developed instruments significantly enhance TMJ arthroscopic surgery.
• These tools enable procedures to be performed under improved visual control.
• The application of these instruments leads to a considerable reduction in surgical duration.