Can arthrocentesis help reduce the displaced disc in patients with closed lock of the temporomandibular joint? A case review.

Arthrocentesis (joint lavage and lysis) and hydraulic distension of the temporomandibular joint have been described as effective options for reducing joint pain and improving function in patients with limited mouth opening (closed lock) due to disc displacement without reduction, fundamentally in the acute phase of the disorder. Despite controversy, some studies suggest that in addition to improving the range of opening and reducing joint pain, the disc can also be reduced in some cases. The present study was carried out to determine whether arthrocentesis could reduce the displaced disc in a woman with 6 weeks of closed lock, and to assess its efficacy in improving mouth opening and reducing joint pain. Key words:Arthrocentesis, closed lock, disc displacement, limited mouth opening, disc reduction, disc recapture.