Diagnostic accuracy of TMJ arthroscopy in correlation to histological findings

From 1987-1993, 356 arthroscopic examinations of the temporomandibular joint were performed on 295 patients. During 69 examinations, biopsies were obtained to correlate arthroscopic findings with histology. In the overall group, histology confirmed in 78.9% the arthroscopic findings. Correlation was better in joints with degenerative changes (81.5%) than in those with a synovitic/hyperaemic appearance (61.5%). Chondroid metaplasia, detritus synovitis and synovial chondromatosis were additional diagnoses given by histological examination. In 11 joints, open arthrotomy was performed after arthroscopy with biopsy was carried out. The excised tissue was also investigated microscopically and correlates to the biopsy-result. Because no different pathological changes were found, it is concluded that biopsies performed during arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint are representative for histological investigation. An additional perforation for introducing the biopsy forceps is not necessary, because results obtained with different techniques appeared to be equally accurate.