Novel guide device for temporomandibular joint arthroscopy.

Operative arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint requires the insertion of an arthroscope and a working cannula. The surgical instruments are introduced into the joint space via the working cannula, and are visualized by the arthroscope. While the insertion of the arthroscope is relatively easy as anatomical landmarks such as the tragus-canthus line aid the surgeon, the insertion of the working cannula requires the use of advanced techniques and demands higher levels of surgical expertise. Following is a description of a novel guide device that enables the surgeon to introduce the working cannula into the desired location relative to the arthroscope, and maintains optimal spatial relations between them throughout the procedure.