Techniques and modifications for TMJ arthrocentesis: A literature review

OBJECTIVES: To discuss advantages and disadvantages of TMJ arthrocentesis techniques, identifying modifications as reported in the literature. METHODS: A PubMed web-based search was carried out, using the terms TMJ and arthrocentesis, to determine the scope of coverage in well-documented articles in English. RESULTS: Among 237 articles, 12 distinct techniques were described for TMJ arthrocentesis in 12 articles. Among 12 techniques, 5 were classified as double puncture arthrocentesis (DPA) and 7 as single puncture arthrocentesis (SPA). In total, 17 well documented articles about SPA were found in literature. DISCUSSION: Arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) was first described in 1991. To make the traditional procedure even less invasive, many arthrocentesis methods have been described. However, in 2015, TMJ arthrocentesis techniques were divided into two groups to limit the complexities surrounding the concepts related to TMJ arthrocentesis techniques.