Abstract
Much attention has been paid to the relationship between osseous changes of the condyle and the intra articular findings of the lower space of the temporomandibular joint. We developed an ultra thin solid fiber scope for viewing the lower space of the temporomandibular joint. The diameter of this scope is 1.06mm and the endoscope cannula is 1.48mm in diameter.
However, this scope contains 15, 000 image fibers. The arthroscopic examination was performed in cases with disk displacement without reduction and which were refractory to non surgical treatment. Then, the arthroscopic findings were compared with MRI and arthrography. The first needle was inserted into the lower space under fluoroscopy and the contrast medium was injected to confirm the lower space. The arthroscope was penetrated into the lower space and the first needle was used for the out flow. Pathological findings such as adhesion, osseous changes, perforation and synovitis were able to be clearly found in the lower space through the arthroscopy.
