If movement is still restricted or there is still pain in patients with TMJ osteoarthritis, despite conservative therapy or unsuccessful arthrocentesis, the joint should be treated with arthroscopic surgery. Depending on how the joint has changed, micro instruments are used to contour the bone and cartilage, treat the inflamed synovial membrane or release adhesions.
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Contouring of bone with the micro shaver, vaporisation of hyperplastic synovial tissue with the laser probe |
Sometimes small cysts also have to be removed, that would otherwise destroy the joint with further expansive growth. In arthritic joints there are often loose bodies that can also be arthroscopically removed.
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Treatment of a small TMJ cyst with the micro curette, removal of a loose body with the micro tissue grasper |
This minor surgical procedure can significantly improve the function of the joint and successfully treat TMJ pain.