RESUMO
Abstract: The Temporo-mandibular joint [TMJ] is the joint directly in front of the ear on either side of the head where the upper jaw [maxilla] and lower jaw [mandible] meet. This joint is a typical sliding "ball and socket" that has a disc sandwiched between it. The TMJ is used throughout the day to move the jaw, especially in biting and chewing, talking, and yawning. It is one of the most frequently used joints of the body [Beuscher J., 2007]
Patients and Methods: The present study was conducted on 25 patients presented at outpatient clinic of Maxillo-facial Surgery Department. Patients with primary TMD [Intermittent joint pain, joint clicking, and normal mouth opening, MRI showing partial anterior disc displacement with reduction] were selected irrespective of their age and gender
Results: Arthrocentesis was done for 25 patients showing success in 23 patients and failure in 2 patients who required open surgery
Conclusion: Arthrocentesis is the least invasive TMJ surgery. It is also the least expensive. Since it is usually done in the office or in an outpatient clinic. It shows success rate 92% in patients with inclusion criteria