Complications of temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis

Abstract

Arthrocentesis is a frequently performed and accepted minimally invasive and predictable procedure in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders. This review aimed to evaluate arthrocentesis complications. The literature search has included PubMed, Google Scholar, and EMBASE databases by using terms "((TMJ OR TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT OR TMD OR TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDER) AND ARTHROCENTESIS) AND COMPLICATION". Publications up to 2019 were examined. Seven studies involving arthrocentesis complications were included. Although arthrocentesis is considered as a cost-effective and safe procedure, complications may be seen due to its proximity to important anatomical structures. Most of these complications are short-lived and can easily be managed in the outpatient clinic; however, some severe complications have rarely been reported in the literature. The practitioners who perform this procedure should be aware of these possible complications and be able to manage them in the clinic.