Influence of the type of anesthesia on 111 arthrocentesis in temporomandibular joint disorders: results of a prospective study

Aims: Temporomandibular dysfunction is a generic term that covers a large number of clinical problems affecting not only TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint), but also the masticatory musculature and related structures. Arthrocentesis is the most commonly used technique in patients with pain or limitation of the oral opening due to joint causes in which conservative treatment has failed. It is generally performed under local anesthesia and sedation, although depending on the type of patient and the preferences of the surgeon it can also be performed under general anesthesia. Material and method: A prospective, observational, analytical cohort study has been carried out to evaluate if the type of anesthesia, the drugs used for sedation and whether or not anesthetic induction is performed during arthrocentesis influence the results of 111 arthrocentesis performed in patients with TMJ pathology. Results: In patients who arthrocentesis was performed with propofol without midazolam the improvement in pain at one week and one month postarthrocentesis was greater than propofol with midazolam was used. Conclusion: The type of anesthesia could influence the results of arthrocentesis.