Loose bodies in the temporomandibular joint : the advantages of arthroscopy

Loose bodies are a rare cause of temporomandibular joint symptoms. Their main source is synovial chondromatosis. We report on clinical findings, diagnostic methods, treatment choices and outcome following the removal of loose bodies in 10 patients. Seven patients were evaluated and treated by means...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of cranio-maxillo-facial surgery 1995-08, Vol.23 (4), p.215-221
Main Authors: CARLS, F. R, VON HOCHSTETTER, A, ENGELKE, W, SAILER, H. F
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adolescent
Adult
Aged
Arthroscopy
Biological and medical sciences
Chondromatosis, Synovial - complications
Dentistry
Endoscopy
Female
Humans
Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects)
Joint Loose Bodies - diagnosis
Joint Loose Bodies - etiology
Joint Loose Bodies - surgery
Male
Medical sciences
Middle Aged
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders - diagnosis
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders - surgery
Treatment Outcome
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Description
Summary:Loose bodies are a rare cause of temporomandibular joint symptoms. Their main source is synovial chondromatosis. We report on clinical findings, diagnostic methods, treatment choices and outcome following the removal of loose bodies in 10 patients. Seven patients were evaluated and treated by means of arthroscopy, while in three patients open arthrotomy was performed. In five patients, no diagnostic imaging technique had demonstrated the presence of loose bodies prior to arthroscopy. In six patients, histology revealed synovial chondromatosis. In four patients, osteochondral fragments alone were found. Until now, the recommended treatment of choice for the removal of all loose bodies and of affected synovial tissue required open arthrotomy. We conclude that the advantages of arthroscopy consist in locating loose bodies that are not detectable radiologically and in reducing operative trauma.
ISSN:1010-5182
1878-4119
DOI:10.1016/S1010-5182(05)80210-0