Complications of temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of incidence and safety profile

Objective: TMJ arthrocentesis is a minimally invasive treatment for temporomandibular disorders, but its complication profile is not fully defined. This study evaluated the incidence and spectrum of associated adverse events. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus were systematically searched for human studies reporting complications, including trials, observational studies, case series, and case reports. All were qualitatively reviewed; only studies with extractable numerical data were meta-analyzed. Results: Forty-six studies were included; 23 reported numerical data and 13 entered the meta-analysis. The pooled complication rate was ~11% (95% CI 5–18%) with high heterogeneity; excluding isolated post-procedural pain gave ~9%. Most events were minor and transient, especially periarticular swelling and temporary facial nerve dysfunction. Clinically significant complications (hematoma, infection, vascular injury) were rare (<1%), while severe events were limited to case reports. Conclusion: TMJarthrocentesis is a low-risk procedure. Substantialheterogeneity warrant cautious interpretation and highlight the needfor standardized assessment.