ARTHROSCOPY

Overview

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which an examination and sometimes treatment of a joint is performed using an arthroscope. The arthroscope is connected to a camera and the interior of the joint is seen on a television monitor.

The arthroscopy of the temporomandibular (jaw) joint is indicated for patients who do not respond to non surgical methods of treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction.

Procedure
Arthroscopy can be done under local or general anaesthesia.
It involves:

• making a small incision in front of the ear for insertion of an endoscope
• if surgery is needed, another incision is made for the insertion of small surgical instruments
• Another minimally invasive procedure is Arthrocentesis, where a needle is inserted into the joint so that fluid can be irrigated through the joint to remove debris and inflammatory by products

Advantages of Arthroscopy
Compared to open joint surgery, the advantages of arthroscopy are:

• faster recovery
• minimal scarring
• less trauma to tissues

Post-operative Care After Arthroscopy
The incision for arthroscopy is small, about 3mm,

• There will be a small dressing over the wound. You should keep this dry
• You will be given jaw exercises to encourage movement of the joint
• Dietary restriction is not necessary
• Pain and swelling is minimal but you will be given pain medication
• Call your surgeon if you develop unusual pain, swelling or redness in the joint