Four-year follow-up study of temporomandibular joint arthroscopic surgery for advanced stage internal derangements.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the long-term outcome after temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopic surgery for patients with internal derangement with stage V disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen female patients (24 TMJs) who underwent arthroscopic surgery were evaluated by a questionnaire preoperatively and postoperatively 3 to 5 years later (mean: 4 years, 2 months). The questionnaires consisted of a visual analog scale, pain and jaw dysfunction scores, and self-measured interincisal opening. Clinical examination and conventional radiographic evaluation were done in nine patients (13 joints). Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging was done in two patients (3 joints).

RESULTS: All post-treatment scores showed a statistically significant improvement, although joint noise remained in some patients. The radiographic examination revealed mild to moderate degenerative changes, but no abnormal resorption was detected. The surgical success rate was 93.3%.

CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic surgery is a useful, minimal invasive, surgical procedure for advanced stage internal derangement of the TMJ.