Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
A Morphometric and Cellular Analysis Method for the Murine Mandibular Condyle
Published on: January 11, 2018
Arthroscopy and arthroscopic surgery of the temporomandibular joint (T.M.J.)
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Yamanashi Medical College, Japan.
Abstract:
Arthroscopy consist of the insertion of a rigid endoscope into a joint compartment for observation and therapeutic purposes. Since the joint space of TMJ is small, the Indications for arthroscopy in the TMJ were very limited, but with the development of a needle type rigid arthroscope in 1974 in Japan, we began applying this instrument clinically. When arthroscopy is performed, decisions should naturally be made with careful consideration given to the indications. The reason for this is that, in cases where arthroscopy is performed for the purpose of diagnosis, the invasion required for arthroscope perforation might cause more damage than the lesion in the joint. In such cases, consideration must also be given to the after-effects of the damage resulting from the arthroscopy. Therefore, preoperative tests for arthroscopy should be carefully performed and thorough consideration should be given to the indications for arthroscopy based on an understanding of the degree of the lesion in the joint. The indications for arthroscopy should again be carefully considered in cases where diagnosis is made by arthroscopy but it is assumed that the lesion cannot be treated. We first perform arthroscopy on cases considered to be indicated for operations under arthroscopy from preoperative diagnosis, and then perform the operation under arthroscopy once the lesion has been confirmed. Care must be taken that the joint is not damaged uselessly when arthroscopic diagnosis is performed without treatment. Before performing arthroscopy of the TMJ it is extremely important to perform arthrography, especially double contrast arthrotomography and contrast CT, in order to evaluate the condition of the joint space.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Insights
Arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) requires careful consideration of indications due to potential joint damage. Preoperative evaluation is crucial for successful TMJ arthroscopy.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Arthroscopy involves inserting an endoscope into a joint for observation and treatment.
- The small temporomandibular joint (TMJ) space historically limited arthroscopic indications.
- Development of a needle-type arthroscope in 1974 expanded TMJ arthroscopic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the critical importance of carefully selecting indications for TMJ arthroscopy.
- To highlight the potential for iatrogenic damage from arthroscopic procedures if not properly indicated.
- To stress the necessity of thorough preoperative evaluation for TMJ arthroscopy.
Main Methods:
- Review of arthroscopic procedures in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
- Emphasis on preoperative diagnostic imaging, including arthrography and CT scans.
- Clinical decision-making based on preoperative diagnosis and lesion assessment.
Main Results:
- Arthroscopy can cause more damage than the underlying lesion if indications are not carefully considered.
- Thorough preoperative assessment is vital to determine appropriate candidates for TMJ arthroscopy.
- Diagnostic arthroscopy without therapeutic intent requires caution to prevent joint damage.
Conclusions:
- Careful patient selection and thorough preoperative evaluation are paramount for successful and safe TMJ arthroscopy.
- The benefits of TMJ arthroscopy must outweigh the risks of iatrogenic injury.
- Advanced imaging techniques are essential for evaluating TMJ conditions prior to arthroscopy.
