[Therapeutic arthroscopy for recurrent temporomandibular luxation]. / Arthroscopie thérapeutique au cours des luxations temporo-mandibulaires récidivantes.

Surgery is sometimes indicated in cases of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation (luxation). Among the panel of available techniques, therapeutic arthroscopy with retrodiscal tissue and oblique protuberance coagulation has been used to prevent new episodes. Therapeutic arthroscopy was used for 6 patients. Outcome was considered to be satisfactory in 66% with a mean 3.1-year follow-up. This technique can be recommended as first line therapy when surgery is indicated. In case of failure, eminectomy is scheduled.

[The contribution of standard radiographs in the evaluation of masticatory system dysfunction]. / Apport des radiographies standard dans le bilan des dysfonctionnements de l'appareil manducateur (D.A.M.).

Conventional x-ray films (orthopantomogram, teleradiogram) visualize many signs of dysfunction of the manducatory apparatus (DAM). Progress in our knowledge of the pathophysiology of DAM has brought new light to these radiographic signs. The orthopantomogram allows an assessment of modifications in muscle insertion zones secondary to their dysfunction and, more difficulty, the articular remodeling of the TMJ, mainly of the mandibular condyle and the articular space. The lateral teleradiogram studied by architectural and structural analysis provides information on the biomechanical balance of the cranio-facial structures and, especially, on the position of the mandibular rami. These standard radiograms are indispensable in the differential diagnosis, useful in the etiological diagnosis and are preliminary examinations prior to using other imaging techniques (MRI, CT). Standard films are easily reproducible for post-therapy follow-up.