ABSTRACT
Arthroscopy of the human temporomandibular joint (TMJ) was first introduced by Dr. Ohnishi in 1975 and this procedure has been further pioneered by surgeons including Drs Holmlund, Murakami, Sanders and McCain. The pioneers of TMJ arthroscopy have demonstrated the ability to successfully accomplish many surgical maneuvers that historically required open surgery. Patients who present for consultation with symptoms related to the TMJ are first initiated on a period of non-surgical treatments, prior to surgical intervention. Non-surgical treatment should always include patient education and conservative treatment adjuncts, with the goal of reducing joint-load and inflammation. Diagnostic and operative arthroscopies are best performed under general anesthesia via nasal intubation. Nasal intubation allows oral cavity access for intraoperative jaw manipulation, without risk of damaging the endotracheal tube. Regardless of the level of arthroscopy planned, the procedure always begins and ends with an examination under anesthesia.
