Overview
Arthrocentesis is the clinical procedure of using a syringe to collect synovial fluid from a joint capsule—or to lavage the joint with saline or medications. It is also known as joint aspiration. It has been studied for the treatment of restricted TMJ movement and late painful clicking. Restoration of the disc-condyle relationship is not the goal of either arthrocentesis or arthroscopy.
Indications
These procedures are thought to restore the mobility of the joint by reestablishing joint lubrication and fluidity.
Precautions
Since arthrocentesis is performed in an office or clinic, rather than the operating room, and since it is minimally invasive, there is a very low risk for adverse affects resulting from this type of procedure.
Arthrocentesis is the clinical procedure of using a syringe to collect synovial fluid from a joint capsule—or to lavage the joint with saline or medications. It is also known as joint aspiration. It has been studied for the treatment of restricted TMJ movement and late painful clicking. Restoration of the disc-condyle relationship is not the goal of either arthrocentesis or arthroscopy.