title: Holmium:YAG laser arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint.
abstract: A new pulsed midinfrared laser has become available for use in arthroscopic surgery of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This article reviews holmium:YAG (yttrium-aluminum-garnet) laser physics, its tissue effects, and reports initial experience with its use in TMJ arthroscopy. Because the Ho:YAG laser can precisely and rapidly resect cartilaginous tissues with only moderate necrosis, can function in a saline environment, and can be transmitted through conventional optical fibers, it has the potential of becoming a useful and adaptable system for TMJ arthroscopic surgery.
authors.affiliation: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and affiliated hospitals, Medical College of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19129.
authors.forename: B H
authors.initials: BH
authors.lastname: Hendler
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gateno
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Mooar
authors.forename: H H
authors.initials: HH
authors.lastname: Sherk
mesh_terms: D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000379:methods; D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000528:radiation effects; D006695:Holmium; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000601:surgery*; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D007834:Lasers; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000601:surgery*; D000267:Tissue Adhesions / Q000601:surgery
chemical_list: D006695:Holmium