Arthroscopic temporomandibular joint disc repositioning using a transmeatal suturing technique: A cadaveric feasibility study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Oral and Maxillofacial surgery Departement, Faculty of Dentistry, Minia university, Minia, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Various arthroscopic discopexy techniques were described for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc displacement
with a different success rate. One of these techniques, is the novel technique introduced by Chi Yang et al in 2012 in which
the disc is sutured with the retrodiscal tissues through transmeatal approach. Although this technique is highly successful, it is
reported by several operators who tried to apply it to be extremely complex.
Objectives: To assess the feasibility of Yang's arthroscopic discopexy technique for TMJ disc displacement using the transmeatal
approach.
Materials and Methods: Yang's arthroscopic transmeatal discopexy technique is conducted on six temporomandibular joints of
fresh human cadavers. The feasibility of that technique was assessed by the success rate of the procedure by the same operator.
Results: The technique was successfully performed in two thirds of the joints (n=4) and failure in the remaining one third (n=2).
Conclusion: The technique is feasible but it needs a highly experienced TMJ arthroscopist.

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