Journal of Dental Research, Vol 59, 1930-1935, Copyright © 1980 by International & American Associations for Dental Research Online Journals
Regional nerve block of the temporomandibular joint capsule: a technique for clinical research and differential diagnosis
I. Klineberg and J. Lillie
In previous studies in which regional anesthesia of the temporomandibular
joint capsule was used to examine the role of the joint in mandibular
movement and distinguish it from muscle control, the anesthetic techniques
used have not been satisfactorily described. The accuracy of the injection
technique described in this paper was determined by dissection and
radiogrphic examination of fixed and fresh specimens. Using this technique,
trial patient studies were made using an anesthetic solution to which a
radiopaque medium was added. Radiographic examination of the patients
affirmed the location of the injected material, while clinical assessment
determined its functional effectiveness. Using the described technique,
anesthetic solution was accurately and reproducibly introduced posteriorly
and laterally to the temporomandibular joint to achieve anesthesia of the
joint.
