Jaw Joint (Temporomandibular Joint) Surgery

There are several types of TMJ Surgery Procedures

• Arthrocentesis
  This is usually done under local anaesthesia where two needles are inserted into the TMJ space to allow the space to be flushed and where appropriate, medication to be instilled.
  
• Arthroscopy
  This procedure is done under general anaesthesia. A small incision is made in front of the ear to access the joint with special instruments to visualise the joint surfaces and where appropriate, dissect any adhesions.
  
• Open joint surgery
  The TMJ surface or disc that is significantly diseased may require open joint surgery to trim irregular joint surfaces or remove the disc. An incision is made in front of the ear and scalp. Depending on the TMJ condition, the disc may be repaired or removed, and any joint surface irregularities or pathology may be removed.
  

In some cases, the TMJ condyle may be removed and reconstructed with rib bone or a prosthesis.