[Arthrocentesis and lavage of TMJ for the treatment of anterior disc displacement without reduction].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the clinical efficacy of the TMJ arthrocentesis and lavage as a treatment for anterior disc displacement without reduction of the TMJ.


METHODS
38 patients with limited mouth opening caused by anterior disc displacement without reduction were treated by using TMJ arthrocentesis and lavage. Clinical data including pain and mandibular motion were collected and then analyzed. Arthrography was used to evaluate disc position.


RESULTS
The mandibular motion had increased significantly (P < 0.001) at different period of time, especially within 1 month. Jaw pain had also significantly improved (P < 0.01). Arthrography revealed that most of the TMJs studied had persistent anterior disc displacement with only 2 patients demonstrating a "reduced disc".


CONCLUSIONS
Arthrocentesis and lavage is effective in reducing pain and increasing mandibular motion in patients with anterior disc displacement without reduction, especially in patients the duration of symptoms being less then 6 months. It is recommended as a simple alternative to more invasive TMJ procedures.
Han
Z
Z
Department of Stomatology, Nanjing Railway Medical College Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing 210009.
Ha
Q
Q
Yang
C
C
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001182:Arthroscopy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D019152:Paracentesis; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D019224:Temporomandibular Joint Disc / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome