A Protocol for a Systematic Review on Septic Arthritis of the Temporomandibular Joint (SATMJ)

Background/Objectives: Septic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint is an infectious disease with a rapid course and possible long-term complications. It is crucial to diagnose and implement treatment quickly and to know the potential causes of the occurrence of SATMJ. The planned systematic review aims to summarize current knowledge on this subject. Methods: This protocol follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and checklist. The following scientific databases will be searched: ACM, BASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. Studies on SATMJ that are consistent with the pre-established PICOTS criteria will be included in the systematic review. Two authors will independently conduct the record screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal phases. The quality of the studies will be evaluated using the JBI critical appraisal tools. Certainty assessment will be conducted using the GRADE tool. The obtained research results and data will be used to define and establish the current scientific position on the diagnosis and treatment of SATMJ. Conclusions on the lack of association of gender, age, and race with the occurrence of this disease entity will be verified, among others. The planned systematic review will be based on extensive searches for studies with no high risk of bias. The aim is to assist clinicians in managing SATMJ, and to inspire future research.