Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 5, 2026
Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Complications of Diagnostic TMJ Arthroscopy: An Institutional Study
Sanjay Kumar Roy Chowdhury1, Vivek Saxena1, K Rajkumar1
1Department of Dental Surgery and Oral Health Sciences, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra 411040 India.
Introduction:
The prevalence of using arthroscopy for the diagnosis of the TMJ disorders is increasing due to its superiority to conventional methods of imaging. Although considered to be safe, complications do occur.
Patients And Method:
A single operator single-institution retrospective study consisting of 50 patients taken up for diagnostic arthroscopy was analysed for complications.
Results:
Lacerations of external acoustic meatus was found in 03 patients (6%); immediate partial hearing loss was seen in 01 patient (2%); transient facial nerve palsy was found in 05 patients (10%); sensory disturbances over the distribution of auriculotemporal nerve was evident in 01 patient (2%); haemorrhage as visualised by excessive bleeding through trocar skin puncture wound was seen in 05 patients (5%). Post-operative pain more than the pre-operative pain on assessment by visual analogue scale was noted in 05 patients (10%) on the immediate post-operative day. Reduction in spontaneous mouth opening was noted in 15 patients (30%).
Conclusion:
Though the complication rate was found to be higher than most of the other studies, they were minor which resolved without any intervention. The cases with complications were clustered at the beginning of the series which suggests the steep learning curve and the importance of surgeons' experience and skill involved in this procedure.
Insights
Diagnostic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopy is increasingly used, but complications can occur. This study found minor, transient complications, with most occurring early, highlighting the importance of surgeon experience.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are increasingly diagnosed using arthroscopy due to its advantages over conventional imaging.
- While TMJ arthroscopy is generally safe, potential complications exist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the complication rate associated with diagnostic TMJ arthroscopy.
- To evaluate the nature and frequency of complications in TMJ arthroscopy procedures.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 50 patients undergoing diagnostic TMJ arthroscopy by a single surgeon.
- Complications were documented and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Complications included external acoustic meatus lacerations (6%), temporary hearing loss (2%), facial nerve palsy (10%), auriculotemporal nerve sensory disturbances (2%), and hemorrhage (5%).
- Post-operative pain (10%) and reduced mouth opening (30%) were also noted.
- A higher complication rate was observed, particularly in the initial cases.
Conclusions:
- TMJ arthroscopy complications are generally minor and resolve without intervention.
- The clustering of complications early in the series suggests a learning curve and the critical role of surgeon experience.
More Related Videos
06:37Temporomandibular Joint Pain Measurement by Bite Force and Von Frey Filament Assays in Mice
Published on: September 13, 2024
06:28Anterior Cruciate Ligament Transection and Synovial Fluid Lavage in a Rodent Model to Study Joint Inflammation and Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis
Published on: September 2, 2025
Related Concept Videos
01:14Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...