Arthroscopic Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Sepsis in a Horse

Abstract

To report arthroscopic debridement and lavage of a septic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in a horse. Clinical case report. A 12-year-old Thoroughbred mare. Arthroscopic investigation of the dorsal joint pouch of the right TMJ was made through a stab incision into the dorsocaudal compartment. Mechanized resection of synovium and fibrinous debris combined with copious lavage, and intra-articular and systemic antibiotic administration was used to treat the septic TMJ. Arthroscopic debridement and lavage of the TMJ, in combination with intra-articular and systemic antimicrobials resulted in resolution of sepsis. Eight months post-operatively, there was no clinical evidence of degenerative joint disease or ankylosis of the TMJ. TMJ sepsis is rare in horses, however, standard arthroscopic equipment can be used in the management of this condition with minimal complications. Arthroscopic debridement and lavage should be considered for evaluation and initial treatment of TMJ sepsis in horses.