Which surgery unlocks a locked jaw? a Head-to-Head test

NCT ID NCT06782178

First seen Aug 06, 2026 · Last updated Aug 07, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial compares two surgical techniques for treating a painful jaw condition called disc displacement without reduction, where the jaw's cushioning disc slips out of place and limits mouth opening. Participants will receive either arthroscopic lysis and lavage, a procedure that rinses the joint and breaks up adhesions, or arthrocentesis, a simpler irrigation, both under general anesthesia. The study will measure improvements in mouth opening, jaw pain, and disability over two years, and also look for factors that predict success. The goal is to determine which method offers better relief for people with this disabling condition.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Arthroscopic lysis and lavage (a surgical procedure to rinse the jaw joint and break up adhesions) compared to arthrocentesis (a blind irrigation of the joint with saline).
What this could lead to
If arthroscopic lysis and lavage proves superior, it could become the preferred surgical option for people with painful, locked jaw joints, offering better mouth opening and pain relief.
What could go wrong
This is a randomized trial with 100 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Both procedures are invasive and carry risks such as infection, swelling, or temporary nerve irritation, and the study does not guarantee long-term benefit.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Karolinska Institutet

    RECRUITING

    Huddinge, 14104, Sweden

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.