Arthrocentesis - Arthrocentesis

Arthrocentesis is the irrigation of the joint. This is the most minimally invasive procedure used to treat TMJ diseases. Because of the low risk and a high success rate, surgeons will typically use this method before exploring more aggressive treatment options, such as open-joint surgery (arthroplasty).

This procedure is typically completed in approximately 15 minutes. Usually performed under either IV sedation or general anesthesia, the surgeon injects the joint with local anesthetic and fluid to flush out inflamed fluids. Steroids may also be injected to help combat any inflammation. Patients are often able to tell whether pain has decreased shortly following the procedure.

This procedure involves minimal risk and is both therapeutic (it can reduce pain and fix the patient's problem) and diagnostic (if the pain does not subside, physicians can use this information to plan continuing treatment).