[Therapeutic arthroscopy for recurrent temporomandibular luxation]

Surgery is sometimes indicated in cases of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation (luxation). Among the panel of available techniques, therapeutic arthroscopy with retrodiscal tissue and oblique protuberance coagulation has been used to prevent new episodes. Therapeutic arthroscopy was used for 6 patients. Outcome was considered to be satisfactory in 66% with a mean 3.1-year follow-up. This technique can be recommended as first line therapy when surgery is indicated. In case of failure, eminectomy is scheduled.