This study used magnetic resonance imaging to assess disk-condyle relationships before and after arthroscopic surgery. Disk positions relative to condyles were found to be generally unchanged, despite the greater range of opening. Clinical findings were positive symptomatic changes with improved interincisal openings in 11 of 12 patients (92%). The results suggest that the clinical success of arthroscopic surgery as a treatment modality does not occur as a result of disk repositioning or recapturing.