Purpose: Open disk repositioning has been long achieving excellent functional and stability outcomes. However, still remains some relapses for whom a second open surgery is often challenging. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of arthroscopic disk reposition as an alternative surgery for unsuccessful cases of anterior disk displacement (ADD) after an initial open disk repositioning.
Materials and methods: This retrospective study included all patients who underwent secondary arthroscopy for disk repositioning of the relapsed ADD after an initial open surgery between January 2012 to June 2017. The redo arthroscopic disk repositioning and suturing procedure was the primary predictor input variable in this study. Outcome evaluation was based on both clinical (visual analog scale and maximal interincisal opening) and magnetic resonance imaging data.
Results: Twenty-seven joints fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included. A significant improvement was detected at 24-month postoperatively compared with the baseline visual analog scale. The maximal interincisal opening showed a statistical improvement from 25.07 mm preoperatively to 38.44 mm at 24-month postoperatively. Twenty-six joints maintained a stable disk position with only 1 joint relapsed to ADD without reduction.
Conclusion: Arthroscopic disk reposition and suturing technique is a reliable and effective repeat surgery after failed initial open disk repositioning for management of ADD.
Copyright © 2022 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.