Procedures
TMJ Arthroscopy
TMJ Arthroscopy
TMJ arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery used to diagnose and treat temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
TMD affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which acts as a hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. When this joint is compromised, it can cause pain, restricted movement, and other symptoms that disrupt daily life.
Arthroscopy is an outpatient procedure performed using a small camera called an arthroscope. The oral surgeon can view the joint structures and adjacent tissues on a monitor. This approach enables both diagnostic and operative arthroscopy to address the source of pain and restricted jaw movement.
If you are considering TMJ arthroscopy, it is important to consult with an experienced oral surgeon to discuss your surgical options.
AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons offers TMJ arthroscopy in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Show Low and Tempe, AZ.
Key Takeaway
TMJ arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that diagnoses and treats temporomandibular joint disorders, relieving pain and restoring jaw function. With advanced techniques and expert care from AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, patients can achieve effective, long-term results with minimal recovery time.
TMJ Disorders
TMJ arthroscopy uses advanced technology to both identify the root cause of joint disorders and provide effective treatment.
Arthroscopic procedures can restore the range of motion of the jaw and remove scar tissue without the need for more invasive surgical procedures such as open-joint surgery.
Some of the common joint disorders treated with arthroscopic techniques include:
- Synovitis: Inflammation of the synovial tissues that can cause pain. Arthroscopy can be used to reduce inflamed tissue that is causing symptoms.
- Myofascial pain syndrome: Characterized by muscle pain and spasms in the face, neck, and shoulders. It may improve with surgical intervention.
- Disc displacement: A condition in which the TMJ disc, a soft tissue cushion in the joint, becomes displaced. Disc repositioning can be performed to relieve symptoms of pain and restore normal jaw movements.
- Internal derangement: When the joint surface of the TMJ or articular cartilage is damaged or displaced, arthroscopy can help remove fibrous adhesions and improve function.
What is TMJ Arthroscopy?
TMJ arthroscopy is a specialized joint procedure that combines diagnostic and therapeutic techniques to address temporomandibular disorders.
A thin, flexible instrument called an arthroscope is inserted into the joint space through small surgical incisions. The camera-equipped arthroscope provides a clear, magnified view of the joint surfaces, soft tissues, and surrounding synovial tissues.
During the procedure, the surgeon can:
- Examine the joint structures for abnormalities.
- Remove adhesions or scar tissue that limit jaw movement.
- Treat inflammation by removing damaged joint tissue.
- Perform disc repositioning to restore the proper alignment of the posterior band and disc position.
This type of procedure is less invasive than traditional surgery, offering faster recovery, minimal scarring, and improved long-term results for managing joint disease.
The Benefits
TMJ disorders can cause pain and stiffness in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders. With surgery, regular functions such as talking and chewing may be improved.
TMJ arthroscopy offers several advantages over more invasive procedures like open-joint surgery:
- Accurate diagnosis: The surgeon can clearly view joint tissue, soft tissue, and other joint structures.
- Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions result in less pain, minimal scarring, and shorter recovery times.
- Pain reduction: Techniques like removing adhesions, realigning the disc, and treating inflammation can improve symptoms and restore jaw movement.
- Effective outcomes: Many patients experience long-term relief and better joint function with advanced procedures. Regular functions such as talking and chewing may be improved.
Recovery and Aftercare
One of the main benefits of TMJ arthroscopy is that it is a minimally invasive procedure.
There is typically less pain and swelling associated with arthroscopy than with more traditional surgical procedures. Recovery times are also shorter, and patients can typically return to their normal activities within a few days.
Pain Relief
Some TMJ patients may experience moderate to severe jaw pain in the days following their surgery.
Mild to moderate pain after surgery can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, or ice packs. Patients with parafunctional muscle activity like clenching or grinding of teeth may require a muscle relaxant for the first week.
If you are experiencing severe pain, you may be prescribed narcotic pain medication. Do not take more than the recommended dosage or more frequently than your doctor prescribes. Do not drive or consume alcohol while you are taking them. Never combine opioids with benzodiazepine, sleep aids, or other depressants.
Wound Care
Only small incisions are made on the skin, and these are closed with a few stitches.
You can shower 24 hours after your surgery but do not submerge your head underwater, soak your face, or apply a heating pad until after the sutures are removed.
You may gently clean the incisions with a 50/50 mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water applied with a Q-tip and then dried with a soft cloth. To keep the incisions moist, you can use a thin layer of antibiotic ointment.
Diet and Activity
A soft food diet is advised initially to minimize strain on the joint.
Most patients feel well enough to resume normal activities within a few days. However, strenuous activity or exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks to reduce swelling and pain.
Complications
TMJ arthroscopy is a relatively safe and effective surgical procedure.
However, as with any surgery, there are risks associated with arthroscopic surgery. It is important to educate yourself about surgical techniques and their risks.
These risks may include:
- Infection: Infection can occur at the site of the incisions or in the TMJ itself. Infections are rare but may require antibiotics or, in rare cases, additional surgery.
- Nerve damage: Arthroscopy may damage the nerves that provide feeling to your face. This complication is rare and usually temporary but can result in numbness or tingling in your face.
- Damage to the TMJ: Arthroscopy is a delicate procedure, and some damage may occur during the surgery. This can result in TMJ pain and inflammation that may require additional treatment and/or revision surgery to correct.
Alternatives to Surgery
If TMJ arthroscopy is not an option for you, other non-surgical treatment options may help improve your symptoms.
These include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen and naproxen can help relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Jaw exercises can help stretch and strengthen the muscles around the joint, which may help relieve pain.
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): TENS is electrical stimulation that can help relieve TMJ pain.
- Botox injections: Botulinum toxin injections can help relax the muscles around the TMJ, which may help relieve pain.
Splint therapy: A splint is a mouthguard worn to help protect the joint and improve alignment.
Get Rid Of The Pain
TMJ arthroscopy combines advanced techniques and minimally invasive methods to deliver effective results.
By diagnosing and treating joint disease, arthroscopic treatment can reduce pain, improve jaw function, and enhance your quality of life.
If conservative treatment has not relieved your symptoms, our skilled oral surgeons can discuss whether TMJ arthroscopy is the right treatment for you.
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Show Low or Tempe, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online inquiry form.
