Arthroscopic Lysis and Lavage Versus Operative Arthroscopy in the Outcome of Temporomandibular Joint Internal Derangement: A Comparative Study Based on Wilkes Stages

Both ALL and OA are equally effective at decreasing pain in patients with TMJ internal derangement of any Wilkes stage. Patients classified as Wilkes stage IV presenting with chronic closed lock of the TMJ had the highest decrease in pain and the highest increase in mouth opening among the stages, thus confirming these patients as the best candidates for arthroscopy.