Arthrocentesis For Temporomandibular Joint Pain Dysfunction Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a painful musculoskeletal condition.
• Arthrocentesis offers a less invasive treatment option for TMJ disorders.
• Previous studies indicate its use for various TMJ conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of arthrocentesis in patients with TMJ disorders and dysfunction syndrome (TMJPDS).
• To assess outcomes in patients who did not respond to conservative treatments.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive case study involving 45 TMJPDS patients unresponsive to conservative care.
• Single arthrocentesis procedure performed per patient by an oral surgeon.
• Pain assessed via Visual Analogue Scale; mouth opening measured (interincisal distance) at 1 and 2 months post-procedure.

Main Results:

• Two months post-arthrocentesis, 66.7% of patients reported no pain, and 33.3% experienced mild pain.
• 35.5% of patients achieved maximum mouth opening greater than 30mm.
• 64.5% of patients had a maximum mouth opening less than 30mm two months after the procedure.

Conclusions:

• Arthrocentesis demonstrates high effectiveness in alleviating pain and discomfort associated with TMJPDS.
• The procedure leads to a notable increase in mouth opening for patients.
• Arthrocentesis is a recommended treatment for TMJPDS patients refractory to conservative management.