Complications of temporomandibular joint arthroscopy using two-portal coblation technologies: A prospective study of 475 procedures.

PURPOSE: To study the complications of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopic procedures using two-portal coblation technologies.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The 397 consecutive patients (475 joints) who underwent arthroscopic surgery were prospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Complications were observed in 39 (8.21%) procedures. Complications recognized during or immediately after surgery were observed in 25 cases (5.26%). Vascular injury in the points of trocar insertion was observed in seven cases. Lesions of the fibrocartilage layer of the joint secondary to introduction of instruments were observed in 12 cases. Bleeding within the superior joint space was observed in 21 cases. Extravasation of irrigation fluid appeared in five patients, affecting the oropharyngeal space in one case. In 20 patients, more than one complication at the time of surgery occurred. Delay postoperative complications were noted in 14 patients. Blood clots in the external auditory canal were found in eight cases and lacerations in two cases. One patient experienced partial hearing loss, and two patients experienced vertigo. Temporary hypoesthesia of the auriculotemporal nerve was seen in two patients. Temporary damage to the V cranial nerve was observed in four patients. Temporary paralysis of the zygomatic branch of the facial nerve was seen in one patient.

CONCLUSION

TMJ arthroscopy using coblation technologies is a safe surgical procedure when performed by experienced surgeons.