53218 - TMJ Arthroscopic Debridement

The need for arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with removal of loose bodies, debridement, or treatment of adhesions arises when a patient has TMJ dysfunction—such as locking, pain, or restricted motion—caused by loose cartilage, inflamed tissue, or scar bands, requiring minimally invasive surgical intervention under anesthesia with assistance in a hospital to remove debris, clean the joint, or break adhesions and restore function. This procedure is indicated for therapeutic correction of specific TMJ issues, critical in the maxillofacial region where joint mobility affects chewing and speech.

Specific conditions driving this need include:

• Loose bodies: Cartilage fragments from trauma or degeneration might float in the TMJ, causing locking or grinding, necessitating removal to free the joint.
• Synovitis: Inflamed synovial tissue could produce debris or swelling, requiring debridement to reduce pain and improve motion.
• Adhesions: Scar tissue from prior injury or arthritis might bind the joint, limiting opening and needing arthroscopic release to restore range.
• Chronic dysfunction: Persistent symptoms unresponsive to non-surgical care might stem from these issues, prompting targeted treatment to alleviate them.

For example, a patient with a locked TMJ from loose cartilage after a jaw injury might undergo this procedure to remove the fragments and debride inflamed tissue, improving jaw opening, with the assistant aiding in precise scope navigation. In an aged care setting, an elderly patient with adhesions from long-standing TMJ arthritis could benefit from this to regain chewing ability, performed with care for their frailty. By arthroscopically addressing these specific problems, this service restores TMJ mobility, reduces pain, and enhances jaw function, making it a valuable therapeutic option within the maxillofacial framework.

Restores TMJ function, removes debris, and relieves pain minimally invasively.

Recovery of 2-3 weeks with jaw soreness and restricted motion; hospital stay typically required.