Arthroscopy Surgery for the Treatment of Chronic Closed Lock of the Temporomandibular Joint: A Clinical Study in 344 Arthroscopic Procedures

Abstract

cant surgical changes, but remained stable at long-term follow-up. All 15 patients had statistically significant reduction in the incidence and severity of facial pain and headaches (61.5%), and TMJ pain (100%). There was significant improvement of jaw function (63.3%), dietary restrictions (57.9%) and disability (60%). There was significant reduction post surgery of average MIO (9.2%) and lateral excursions (right side 37.5% and left side 30.8%). Conclusions: Conservative condylectomy with recontouring of the residual condylar neck to function as a condyle and repositioning of the articular disc is a viable option for treatment of osteochondromas of the mandibular condyle. The use of this method of treatment permits effective removal of the tumor (no recurrence of the tumor was encountered in any of the cases) and eliminates the need for autogenous grafts or total joint prostheses for temporomandibular joint reconstruction. The significant long-term stability of TMJ and orthognathic surgery movements and significant reduction of TMJ dysfunction and pain symptoms demonstrate the benefits and predictability of managing these complex patients with this treatment protocol.