Survey of TMJ arthroscopy in oral and maxillofacial surgery residency programs

A questionnaire was mailed to oral and maxillofacial surgery residency programs in February 1988 regarding their indications for arthroscopy, number of patients treated, acquisition of skills, success of therapy, and several other questions about arthroscopy. Of the 56 questionnaires returned, 38 (68%) reported experience with TMJ arthroscopy. Pain and decreased range of jaw motion were the most frequently listed indications for surgery. Neural injuries were the most frequently seen complication. Four auditory canal perforations were reported. The operation was deemed successful in 64.8% of the patients. The most frequent criteria given for success were pain relief and increased range of motion. The main sources chosen by the respondents of this survey for acquiring skill in a residency program were information from the literature and hands-on training.