Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 28, 2026

Knee Arthrocentesis in Adults
Published on: February 25, 2022
Complications and post-operative sequelae of temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis
Luigi Angelo Vaira1,2, Maria Teresa Raho1, Damiano Soma1
1a Operative Unit of Maxillo-Facial Surgery , University of Sassari , Sassari , Italy.
Objective:
To evaluate intraoperative complications and postsurgical sequelae associated with arthrocentesis of the TMJ, including injection of Sodium Hyaluronate.
Methods:
This retrospective study evaluated 433 arthrocentesis procedures performed in 315 patients between January 2009 and August 2016. The authors reviewed the complications identified during the procedure and the follow-up period.
Results:
Temporary swelling of the periarticular tissues (95.1%) or the external auditory canal (23.5%), ipsilateral temporary open bite (68.8%), frontalis and orbicularis oculis paresis (65.1%), preauricular hematoma (0.4%), and a case of vertigo (0.2%) were the complications detected.
Conclusions:
TMJ arthrocentesis remains a procedure with a minimum number of important complications. If present, complications are generally temporary, caused by the anesthetic effect or by the soft tissue edema created by the fluid extravasation created by the irrigation procedure, and can be managed on an outpatient basis.
Related Concept Videos
Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Tonsillitis II: Management
Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
