The present invention provides improved methods for correction of temporomandibular joint internal derangement with closed lock via small incision surgical technique. In one embodied form, the unique method comprises the steps of: (a) effecting visualization and orientation of the surgical site of a patient utilizing an arthroscopic device comprising a mechanism for prescribed calibration of the arthroscope depth; (b) effecting arthroscopic inspection of the surgical site, and in particular, the superior compartment of the temporomandibular joint; and (c) effecting lysis comprising resection and incision of adhesions disposed between disc and fossa of the temporomandibular joint region, concommittent with disc displacement. The inventive surgical technique includes an "arthroscopic sweep" of the superior compartment of the TMJ with lysis comprising resects of superior compartment adhesions. Subsequent to lysis, the superior compartment is thoroughly lavaged via irrigation and suction. Preferably, a pressure dressing is placed to cover the surgical wound, and can be removed within about 12 hours from the surgical procedure.
A process and compositions for reducing post-surgical adhesion formation/reformation in mammals following surgical injury to the peritoneal or pleural cavity or organs situated therein. Both aqueous and non-aqueous compositions comprising a polyoxyalkylene block copolymer are applied to injured areas of the peritoneal or pleural cavity or organs situated therein subsequent to surgical injury.
An improved method and composition for preventing adhesions during surgery. Tissue surfaces and surgical articles involved in the surgery are coated with a solution of a hydrophilic, polymeric material prior to manipulation of the tissue during surgery. The composition comprises a solution of a polymeric material having a molecular weight of about 500,000 or above having a concentration of from about 0.01 to about 15%, by weight.
A process and compositions for reducing post-surgical adhesion formation/reformation in mammals following surgical injury to the peritoneal or pleural cavity or organs situated therein. Both aqueous and non-aqueous compositions comprising a polyoxyalkylene block copolymer are applied to injured areas of the peritoneal or pleural cavity or organs situated therein subsequent to surgical injury.
An improved method and composition for preventing adhesions during surgery. Tissue surfaces and surgical articles involved in the surgery are coated with a solution of a hydrophilic, polymeric material prior to manipulation of the tissue during surgery. The composition comprises a solution of a polymeric material having a molecular weight of about 500,000 or above having a concentration of from about 0.01 to about 15%, by weight.
A process and compositons for reducing post-surgical adhesion formation/reformation in mammals following injury to organs situated in mammalian body spaces. Aqueous, thermally reversible gel compositions, preferably at mammalian body fluid pH, comprising a polyoxyalkylene polymer and an ionic polysaccharide are applied to injured areas of the organs situated in body cavities such as, the peritoneal, pelvic, or pleural cavity. The aqueous gels are rendered thermally irreversible upon contact with a counter-ion.
