Temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis and lavage for the treatment of closed lock: a follow-up study.

OBJECTIVES Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthrocentesis and lavage, first described in the North American literature in 1991, is a simplified method used for the treatment of severe, limited mouth opening. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of this technique as a treatment for closed lock of the TMJ. DESIGN Forty-six patients with persistent closed lock of the TMJ of acute onset were treated by TMJ arthrocentesis and lavage with manipulation in an out-patient setting. Clinical data was collected in the form of visual analogue scales for pain and chewing ability, and measurements of maximum mandibular opening before and after treatment. RESULTS On follow-up ranging from 6 to 30 months, jaw opening and mandibular function had significantly improved (p < 0.001), and pain had substantially decreased in all but one patient as a result of this procedure. CONCLUSION TMJ arthrocentesis and lavage is recommended as a simple alternative to more invasive TMJ procedures as an effective technique for the treatment of acute persistent closed lock of the TMJ.