Temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis: A simplified treatment for severe, limited mouth opening

Abstract

Seventeen patients complaining of suddenly occurring, severe, and persistent limited mouth opening were treated by irrigation of the upper compartment of the affected temporomandibular joint with lactated Ringer's solution. This simple treatment was found to be highly effective in reestablishing normal opening and relieving pain for a follow-up period of 4 to 14 months.