II. Indication

  1. Orofacial Pain Evaluation

III. Procedure

  1. Landmarks
    1. Inferolateral margin of the mandibular condyle
  2. Pitfalls
    1. Superficial temporal artery and vein lie in close proximity
  3. Instruments
    1. Syringe with 0.5 cc 1% Lidocaine and 30 gauge 1 inch needle
  4. Technique
    1. Prepare area with topical Betadine or Hibiclens
    2. Insert needle at landmark above and to depth of 1-2 cm below the skin
    3. Aspirate to confirm needle position not within vessel
    4. Deposit 0.5 cc of Lidocaine

IV. Interpretation

  1. Relief of pain following injection suggests Temporomandibular Joint Disorder as source of pain

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