Arthroscopy for TMJ? - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

mdla · 07-07-2003, 01:16 AM

Hello,

I have had every treatment for TMJ, trigger point, splint, pills, arthrosintsis (sp?) drugs.....etc. I am wondering if anyone has had success with arthroscopy. My surgeon is not in favor of it. I want my life back and don't care if it's non-reversable because I certainly don't want to reverse to this.

Cymy Sue · 07-07-2003, 03:18 AM

Hi mdla & Welcome,

Many Surgeons (now) are a little more reserved in doing surgical procedures on the TMJ's due to damage that can be caused when the joint is invaded. Everyone responds differently to these procedures and it does not always correct the problem. Many times, it leads to more surgery. The "irreversible" they speak of, is possible nerve damage, worsening muscle problems, and many other unknowns. This surgery is still very controversial, even though it is advertised by some as almost "Non-invasive". It is still Major Surgery and carries all the same risks.

There are several Members on the Board who have had different "Scope Procedures" and will most likely respond to your question. There has also been a lot of discussion on this subject that you might want to search within the Board.

We've all had different experiences with this and remember, it we had gotten better, we probably wouldn't be here.

I'm sure there are successes with these procedures, but they usually don't come back and post. (The search feature is top right under the reply button) Just type in the procedure that you are interested in and you will get numerous threads.

Also, when we feel desperate, it seems like anything would be better that our current situation. It can be worse. Also, anyone considering this surgery should read the standard release. There's one on the board. If I can find it, I'll bump it up for you.

When I had these procedures, there was very little information available and I did not sign a release nor was I made aware of the possiblilty of all of the complications that can arise.

Sorry to not be able to give you something more positive, but this is a very serious and again, controversial subject.

Cymy Sue

Isew4work · 07-07-2003, 06:06 AM

HI,
I just wanted to tell you that I was exactly in your shoes a few months back, well actually I still am. I went round and round with weahter or not I should have arthoscopic surgery done. I had had splint therapy and it did not help me, then I had arhtrocentesis. It actually made me worse. In my case my Doctor did reccommend arthoscopic as the next step. I went back to the OS who did my arthrocentesis. I got as far as getting the OK from my insurance co. and then I backed out. I am SO glad that I did. It was because I had talked to enough people on here to convince me that stitching my disks into place was not going to give me long term help. I am still not convinced that I will be recovered from TMJ but I am trying a non surgical approach. I have a lower jaw splint that I wear as much as possible.

Be very happy that your Dr. recognizes that you are yet another candidate for the surgery cycle and wants to help you not make that mistake. If he is not sure of what to do for you, search for a Neuromuscular dentist who has studied tmj. Most folks on here who are finding relief are doing so through this newest types of treatment.
Good luck to you,
Mary

ps, didn't the arthrocentesis hurt enough? Did it make you worse?

OHJELJ · 07-07-2003, 09:34 AM

Hey,
I've had arthroscopy on both sides of my jaw twice now in the last 13 years. Both surgeries were a resounding success and I have my life back. I still am very careful about what I eat, no gum, ice chewing, bagels etc...but I live without pain and only have a bite plate to stop the teeth grinding at night. I have a 42mm opening now, which they are considering to be a normal opening for me. I've been in PT since two weeks following my surgery and will continue as a backup to some dental work I'm having done over the next few weeks.

My only lingering problem is some muscle tightness that the PT is taking care of. I live on salads now...can't imagine life without them again. I've lost 11 lbs of the 30 I gained on the soft diet I was on for so long and I'm feeling better than I have in years.

There are success stories out there and people who are feeling well ARE on this site...they just aren't as vocal nor are they as high in numbers as others. I won't say that surgery has been an easy road, it hasn't. It was the only option for me though and I'm glad I found a great surgeon who could help...you need to check out all options before you jump at surgery. It does have to be redone throughout your life...just like a knee surgery does...but to me, it's worth it for the 10 years in between procedures of a pain free life!

Hope this helps.
Jennifer

christa79 · 05-03-2005, 01:45 PM

I am glad to hear you had success with the procedures Jennifer.. I am getting it done May 16th and I am scared.

I hope I have the same outcome as you. How long did it take to eat regular foods? I think it is really important for people to continue PT in order to make the surgery work. Also, I am 25 and have had TMJ for a few years now. I have a displaced disc and my right joint is locked all the time. I am able to open my mouth pretty good but it hurts to do so.