Changes in temporomandibular joint spaces after arthroscopic disc repositioning: a self-control study

Area of Science:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
• Arthroscopic surgery
• Diagnostic imaging

Background:

• Anterior disc displacement (ADD) is a common temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condition.
• Disc repositioning surgery is frequently performed for ADD.
• The effectiveness of arthroscopic disc repositioning on joint spaces and condylar position requires further evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate changes in joint space widths and condylar position after arthroscopic disc repositioning in patients with unilateral ADD.
• To compare the affected TMJ with the healthy contralateral side as a self-control.
• To analyze magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data pre- and post-operatively.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 54 patient records undergoing unilateral arthroscopic disc repositioning.
• Measurement of anterior, superior, and posterior joint space (AS, SS, PS) widths using MRI.
• Assessment of condylar position (anterior, centric, posterior) and statistical analysis using paired t-tests and Chi-square tests.

Main Results:

• Significant increases in superior (SS) and posterior (PS) joint space widths on the operated side post-surgery (P < 0.001).
• No significant changes in anterior (AS) joint spaces on the operated side or any joint spaces on the healthy side.
• Condylar position on the operated side shifted from posterior to anterior, while healthy sides remained centric.

Conclusions:

• Unilateral arthroscopic disc repositioning effectively increases posterior and superior joint spaces in the affected TMJ.
• The procedure does not negatively impact joint spaces or condylar position in the contralateral healthy TMJ.
• Arthroscopic disc repositioning is a viable treatment for improving TMJ internal derangement and joint mechanics.