Measurement and analysis of the intra-articular pressure in temporomandibular joint with sudden-onset, severe closed lock / 华西口腔医学杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>The study aims to find out the fluctuating curve of the intra-articular pressure in temporomandibular joint with sudden-onset, persistent, severe closed lock and discuss the mechanism of its formation. We also investigate the effects of the arthrocentesis.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>20 affected sides in 16 patients were collected. A No. 8 syringe needle was used to pierce into the upper compartment of TMJ. The pre-arthrocentesis intra-articular pressure was measured by the pressure transducer via the flexural rigid tubing at open and close bite. The curve and mean value were documented during the operation.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The patients with sudden-onset, persistent, severe closed lock had significantly low negative intra-articular pressure in their affected temporomandible joints. The average pressures was (-9.947 +/- 8.854) kPa at open bite and (-6.475 +/- 4.147) kPa at close bite.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The TMJs with sudden-onset, persistene, severe closed lock has particular characters on etiology and clinical behavior. Arthrocentesis is one of the effective treatments to the diseases.</p>