Conservative treatment of temporomandibular joint osteoarthrosis: intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate

Efficacy of hyaluronic acid in temporomandibular disorders evaluated with diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD)

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to retrospectively assess the efficacy of hyaluronic acid (HA) in managing temporomandibular disorders (TMD) using the diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD). There has been an ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of HA as a treatment option for TMD, which necessitated a thorough evaluation.

METHODS

The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines conducted across eight different databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, ScienceDirect, PsycINFO and CINAHL. The selection criteria included studies that evaluated the efficacy of HA in TMD patients, utilised DC/TMD, and were published in English. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. ROB-2 tool was employed to assess methodological quality of the assessed studies.

RESULTS

A total of 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. They demonstrated that HA was effective in improving various symptoms of TMD, such as pain, mouth opening and joint sounds over control group. But on the other end, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was found to be better than HA intervention in alleviation of TMD symptoms. However, the degree of improvement varied across the studies. Some studies reported adverse effects, but these were typically minor and transient. Risk of bias assessment was low in all the included studies.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that HA can be an effective treatment for TMD when evaluated with DC/TMD. However, the variation in effectiveness across studies indicates the need for individualised treatment planning and careful monitoring of adverse effects. Further research is needed to refine the treatment protocols and understand the long-term effectiveness and safety of HA in TMD management.

A comparative study of the versatility of various entry points for double-puncture TMJ arthrocentesis: A randomized controlled study

Although various authors employed various entry points for the double-puncture technique (DPT) for arthrocentesis, the literature is devoid of any comparative studies. Therefore, the current prospective study aimed to evaluate the versatility of these different points. A total of 144 TMJs in 108 patients were included and randomly divided into two categories according to ID stage: category I (disc displacement without reduction with limitation), and category II (disc displacement without reduction without limitation). Patients in every category were randomly divided into 3 groups according to the site of entry point of the second needle: group 1 (20-10 point: 20 mm anterior to the tragus and 2 mm inferior to the cantho-tragus line), group 2 (20-1 point), and group 3 (7-2 point). For all patients, the first entry point was 10-2, and the upper joint cavity was irrigated with 150 ml of Ringer's solution without subsequent intra-articular injections. Group 3 had better results than group 2 and further than group 1 in categories I and II with regard to the number of second needle relocations, ease of the procedure, duration of the procedure, and nature of the outflow, as well as pain at rest and pain on function at 1, 3, and 6 post-operative months. For the maximum mouth opining, group 3 had better results than group 2 and further than group 1 only in category I. Therefore, techniques depending on the superior posterior entry points (such as 7-2 point) were recommended.

Intramuscular Botulinum Toxin as an Adjunct to Arthrocentesis with Viscosupplementation in Temporomandibular Disorders: A Proof-of-Concept Case-Control Investigation

BACKGROUND

The reduction in joint load is a potential beneficial factor in managing osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This paper aims to compare the effectiveness of the intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin (BTX-A) as an adjunct to TMJ arthrocentesis plus viscosupplementation with arthrocentesis plus viscosupplementation alone in the management of TMJ osteoarthritis.

METHODS

A pilot clinical retrospective study examined TMJ osteoarthritis treatments. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A received BTX-A injections and arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation, while Group B received only arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation. The study assessed outcomes based on mouth opening (MO), pain at rest (PR), pain at mastication (PF), and masticatory efficiency (ME) at various time points (baseline (T0), 1 week (T1), 2 weeks (T2), 3 weeks (T3), and 4 weeks (T4)) up to 2 months after treatment.

RESULTS

The study included two groups, each with five patients. Group A received five weekly sessions of arthrocentesis plus viscosupplementation and a single BTX-A injection during the first arthrocentesis appointment. Group B underwent the five-session protocol of arthrocentesis plus viscosupplementation alone. MO, PF, PR, and ME improved quickly in T2 in both groups, but the improvement was of greater importance over the following weeks and lasted longer in Group A.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation associated with BTX-A was found to be more effective than arthrocentesis alone in improving clinical outcomes. This suggests that patients with TMJ osteoarthritis and myofascial pain may benefit from reduced muscle tone and joint load.

Comparative effectiveness of hyaluronic acid, platelet-rich plasma, and platelet-rich fibrin in treating temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to compare the efficacy of intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (HA), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) for treating temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and summarize their mechanisms of action.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published until November 13, 2021, were identified using electronic and manual searches. Each study was evaluated for the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The studies found via searches were categorized by follow-up time (1, 3, or 6 months). Evidence quality was graded according to the GRADE system.

RESULTS

Twelve RCTs were included that involved 421 patients with TMD. The network meta-analysis showed that all treatment groups improved compared to the placebo groups in terms of pain and maximal mouth opening (MMO). For pain evaluated via the visual analog scale, PRF exhibited better analgesic effects than PRP or HA after 1 and 3 months. PRP appeared to be more effective than PRF was after 6 months but there were no statistically significant differences between the two. For MMO, the effect of PRP was superior to those of PRF and HA after 1 month. However, after 3 and 6 months, PRF provided more encouraging results in improving MMO.

CONCLUSION

PRP and PRF exhibited similar short-term efficacy in treating TMD, while PRF was more advantageous in terms of long-term efficacy. Therefore, PRF was recommended for treating TMD.

Medium-Term Effect of Treatment with Intra-Articular Injection of Sodium Hyaluronate, Betamethasone and Platelet-Rich Plasma in Patients with Temporomandibular Arthralgia: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Temporomandibular joint disorders are associated with pain and reduced jaw mobility. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term effect on pain of intra-articular TMJ injections of betamethasone, sodium hyaluronate and platelet-rich plasma. The sample was made up of 114 patients, who were randomly distributed into three groups at least three years ago and who achieved a total remission of pain after treatment. We found that the median number of months without pain was, according to each group, as follows: platelet-rich plasma: 33; sodium hyaluronate: 28; betamethasone: 19. Both platelet-rich plasma and sodium hyaluronate lead to significant pain-free time after treatment; when we compare bethametasone with the two other substances, it proved to be very ineffective.

Viscosupplementation in the upper and lower compartments of the temporomandibular joint checked by ultrasonography in an ex vivo and in vivo study

Viscosupplementation (VS) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) aims to treat temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) by stimulating synovial cells to improve intracapsular lubrication. The purpose of the present study was to assess a VS protocol planned with the aid of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and checked by ultrasonography (US). The study was carried out in 3 stages. The first was to check the correspondence between the proposed facial reference points and the osseous components of the joint by means of CBCT. In the second stage, the upper and lower compartments of 20 TMJs of fresh frozen cadavers were injected with coloured liquids, and the accuracy of the technique was confirmed by dissecting the anatomical specimens. The third stage consisted of VS in 10 patients (20 TMJs), with real-time verification of the location of the needle tip by means of ultrasonography. CBCT confirmed the correct locations of the marked points used in the proposed VS protocol. The dissections showed that 13 of the 14 injections effectively reached the upper and lower compartments. The location of the needle tip was effectively verified by ultrasonography, confirming the correct access to both compartments. The proposed protocol was effective for accessing the upper and lower compartments of the TMJ. The evaluated protocol proved to be accurate, safe and clinically reproducible means of VS in the upper and lower compartments of the TMJ.

EFFECTIVENESS OF INTRA-ARTICULAR INJECTIONS OF SODIUM HYALURONATE, CORTICOSTEROIDS, PLATELET-RICH PLASMA ON TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT OSTEOARTHRITIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND NETWORK META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of Intra-articular injections of corticosteroids (CCS), hyaluronic acid (HA), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis.

METHODS

Studies were identified from PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov with date up to January 15, 2022. Randomized controlled trials included were the studies of patients with temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis who had intra-articular treatment with CCS, HA, PRP, placebo and follow-up assessing temporomandibular joint function in target outcome variables. The primary outcome was temporomandibular joint pain. The secondary outcomes were maximal mouth opening (mm), and lateral movement to the affected side (mm). This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42021270914.

RESULTS

Nine randomized controlled trials involving 316 patients were included. For primary pain outcome, no significance was detected when CCS, HA and PRP were compared with placebo by both short- (3-6 months) and long-term (>12 months) follow-up. Relatively, the top ranking of which was PRP in the long-term (Mean Difference, -0.23 [95% CI, -2.49 to 2.04]). In addition, these injectables did not significantly outperform placebo by evaluating secondary functional outcomes (maximal mouth opening and lateral movement) with the same follow-up. Subgroup analyses showed that the effect of CCS on subgroups with more than 70% women was statistically less effective compared with placebo (Mean Difference, 1.73 [95% CI, 0.37-3.09]).

CONCLUSION

Evidence suggested that intra-articular pharmacological injections of CCS, HA, and PRP had no effect on improving temporomandibular joint pain and functional outcomes compared with placebo injection.

Efficacy of sodium hyaluronate in relieving nasal symptoms of children with intermittent allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Nasal irrigation is recommended as add-on therapy in patients with intermittent allergic rhinitis (AR). We aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of adding hyaluronic acid (HA) or normal saline solution (NSS) to nasal corticosteroid (NC) therapy as add-on therapy in improving quality of life and reducing nasal symptom scores of children with intermittent AR compared to NC therapy.

METHOD

In this 28-day long, open-label, randomized controlled trial, one puff of NC was administered once a day through both nostrils of 76 children with SAR (6-12 years old), whose Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS) was ≥ 4. Twenty-six patients received NC only (Group 1); 24 patients received NSS (Group 2), and 26 patients received HA (Group 3) twice a day by means of nasal douche device. Pediatric Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (PRQLQ) and TNSS were measured as subjective parameters, and nasal eosinophil count (NEC) in nasal cytology, nasal airflow (NAF), and resistance were measured as objective parameters.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found in post-treatment between groups in terms of TNSS, PRQLQ, and NEC values. Mean values of post-treatment left NAF of the groups were significantly different (p = 0.030), and the mean value of Group 3 was the highest (mean ± SD = 247.62 ± 155.8 ccm/sn). In comparing pre- and post-treatment intragroup mean total NAR (TNAR) values, a statistically significant decrease was recorded only in group three (p = 0.025).

CONCLUSION

The addition of HA to NC as an adjunct therapy in children with intermittent AR has limited beneficial effects in our study and deserves further investigation.

TRIAL REGISTRY

The clinical trial registration number ID:NCT04752956.

Mechanisms of Action and Efficacy of Hyaluronic Acid, Corticosteroids and Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis-A Systematic Review

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA) is a low-inflammatory disorder with multifactorial etiology. The aim of this review was to present the current state of knowledge regarding the mechanisms of action and the efficacy of hyaluronic acid (HA), corticosteroids (CS) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the treatment of TMJ OA.: The PubMed database was analyzed with the keywords: "(temporomandibular joint) AND ((osteoarthritis) OR (dysfunction) OR (disorders) OR (pain)) AND ((treatment) OR (arthrocentesis) OR (arthroscopy) OR (injection)) AND ((hyaluronic acid) OR (corticosteroid) OR (platelet rich plasma))". After screening of 363 results, 16 studies were included in this review. Arthrocentesis alone effectively reduces pain and improves jaw function in patients diagnosed with TMJ OA. Additional injections of HA, either low-molecular-weight (LMW) HA or high-molecular-weight (HMW) HA, or CS at the end of the arthrocentesis do not improve the final clinical outcomes. CS present several negative effects on the articular cartilage. Results related to additional PRP injections are not consistent and are rather questionable. Further studies should be multicenter, based on a larger group of patients and should answer the question of whether other methods of TMJ OA treatment are more beneficial for the patients than simple arthrocentesis.

Effectiveness of micronized nasal irrigations with hyaluronic acid/isotonic saline solution in non-polipoid chronic rhinosinusitis: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled study

BACKGROUND

Sodium hyaluronate has been proposed as a treatment for improving the symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis. The present study evaluated the effect of the intranasal administration of hyaluronic acid in a group of patients affected by chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty subjects aged 18-65 years affected by CRSsNP were enrolled. The subjects were randomly administered hyaluronic acid or isotonic saline solution by nasal nebulizer twice per day for 30 days. They were evaluated before (T0) and after the treatment (T1) with Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22, visual analogue scale for rhinorrhea, nasal obstruction, facial pain and hyposmia/hypogeusia, nasal endoscopy, active anterior rhinomanometry, peak nasal inspiratory flow and nasal cytology.

RESULTS

Comparing the study and the control group, at T1 no significant differences were observed in both objective and subjective parameters. Being included in the study group rather than in the control group did not have a significant effect on the variation of the considered parameters between T0 and T1. Considering the effects of the micronized douches independently from the type of solution used (either hyaluronic acid or isotonic saline solution), although no difference emerged between study and control group for any of the objective parameters, there was an improvement of Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 scores (p = .0005), visual analogue scale for nasal obstruction (p = .0006) and for hyposmia/hypogeusia (p = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment with micronized nasal douches can improve the sino-nasal symptoms of CRSsNP, in particular nasal obstruction and olfactory ability. No advantage of the use of hyaluronic acid over isotonic saline solution emerged.

Acellular matrix hydrogel for repair of the temporomandibular joint disc

Application of tissue-derived extracellular matrix (ECM) biomaterials in the repair of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc is a promising approach for the treatment of disc abrasion and perforation, particularly for the young patient population. Although decellularized ECM (dECM) scaffolds preserve tissue-specific structures as well as biological and biomechanical properties, they require surgical implantation. To address this issue, we prepared porcine TMJ discs into decellularized ECM with serial detergent and enzyme treatments, and the TMJ disc-derived ECM was then processed into hydrogels via pepsin digestion. The decellularization efficiency was assessed by quantification of the DNA and matrix component contents. The fibrous ultrastructure of the hydrogel was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Rheological characterization and mechanical properties were measured. in vitro experiments with costal chondrocytes ensured the cellular proliferative capacity and compatibility in the injectable disc-derived ECM hydrogel. The results showed that a large amount of DNA (>95%) was removed after decellularization; but, the collagen was retained. SEM of the hydrogels demonstrated a multiaperture fiber ultrastructure. Rheological studies revealed a rapid gelation temperature (37°C) and injectable properties. The mechanical properties of the hydrogels were adjusted by changing the ECM concentration. The in vitro studies revealed that the hydrogels are not cytotoxic, but instead showed good cytocompatibility. The hydrogel also showed good injectability and degradability through an in vivo study. Overall, these results suggest the great potential of injectable disc-derived hydrogels for TMJ disc repair and regeneration applications.

Interdisciplinary Approach to the Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis-Review of the Literature

Background and objectives: There are an increasing number of patients applying for dental treatment who suffer from temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA). Osteoarthritis may be the cause of the pain in the area of temporomandibular joints, but its course may also be absolutely asymptomatic. The aim of this study was to present an interdisciplinary approach to TMJOA, including current diagnostics and treatment modalities on the basis of the available literature. Materials and Methods: PubMed and Scopus databases were analyzed using the keywords: ((temporomandibular joint AND osteoarthritis) AND imaging) and ((temporomandibular joint AND osteoarthritis) AND treatment). The bibliography was supplemented with books related to the temporomandibular joint. After screening 2450 results, the work was based in total on 98 publications. Results and Conclusions: Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory, age-related, chronic and progressive degenerative joint disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), together with clinical symptoms, play significant roles in TMJOA diagnosis. Current MRI techniques seem to be clinically useful for assessment of bony changes in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Treatment of TMJOA requires a complex, interdisciplinary approach. TMJOA treatment includes the cooperation of physiotherapists, rheumatologists, gnathologists, orthodontists and quite often also maxillofacial surgeons and prosthodontists. Sometimes additional pharmacotherapy is indicated. Thorough examination of TMJ function and morphology is necessary at the beginning of any orthodontic or dental treatment. Undiagnosed TMJ dysfunction may cause further problems with the entire masticatory system, including joints, muscles and teeth.

Long-term Changes of Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis on Computed Tomography

This study aimed to understand long-term changes of the osteoarthritic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condyle using computed tomography (CT) and to verify its correlation with clinical characteristics of temporomandibular disorders. Eighty-nine patients (152 joints; 76 female, 13 male) who had taken follow-up CTs (mean follow-up period: 644.58 ± 325.71 days) at least once in addition to their initial evaluation were selected. Cross-sectional demographic and clinical data and longitudinal CT images were collected. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and logistic regression. Overall destructive change index (number of TMJ condyle sections in which destructive change was observed) decreased from 1.56 to 0.66. Improvement was seen in 93 joints (61.2%) and 27 joints (17.8%) worsened. In the pain positive group, both initial and final destructive change index were significantly higher compared to the pain negative group (p = 0.04). Occlusal stabilization splint therapy and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug administration showed a significant effect on improving the prognosis of TMJ osteoarthritis (p = 0.015 and 0.011). In conclusion, TMJ osteoarthritis showed long-term improvement in the majority of cases. TMJ osteoarthritis accompanied by pain showed unfavorable prognosis with additional bone destruction. Occlusal stabilization splint and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug administration were beneficial on the prognosis of TMJ osteoarthritis.

Different Treatments in Patients with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Comparative Randomized Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJDs) are associated with pain and reduced jaw mobility. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of patients with TMJ arthralgia when submitted to four different treatment modalities, in some cases using intra-articular injections of substances with anti-inflammatory properties and in others, a more conservative approach consisting only of a bite splint. Materials and Methods: The sample was made up of 80 patients, randomly distributed into 4 groups of 20 patients each. Each patient was given a nocturnal bite splint. One of the groups was treated with the bite splint only, while each patient in the other 3 was injected with betamethasone, sodium hyaluronate, or platelet-rich plasma in addition to using the bite splint. Two variables were assessed, namely pain intensity between 0 to 10 according to the visual analogue scale and maximum pain-free mouth opening in mm. The patients were evaluated at four different points: at the beginning of the treatment, as well as one week, one month and six months after initiation.

RESULTS

The results showed that maximum pain-free mouth opening improved in all the groups that made up the sample, with either a reduction in pain severity or with no pain. However, the group injected with platelet-rich plasma yielded the best results after six months, while patients treated with sodium hyaluronate or betamethasone obtained the best results at the end of the first week.

CONCLUSIONS

We concluded that all the treatments used caused a reduction in pain and increased pain-free mouth opening. The splint combined with the platelet-rich plasma injection achieved long-term success.

Long-term effectiveness of arthrocentesis with and without hyaluronic acid injection for treatment of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis

This study evaluated the long-term effectiveness of intra-articular temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis for patients with osteoarthritis and compared arthrocentesis/lavage alone with arthrocentesis/lavage and injected hyaluronic acid. Forty patients met the inclusion criteria, and 37 completed long-term follow-up (approximately 4 years). The patients were randomly allocated to two groups: arthrocentesis with lavage alone (A-group, n = 17) or combined with hyaluronic acid treatment (AS-group, n = 20). Standard two-needle arthrocentesis was performed. Pain and joint sounds were measured at baseline and approximately 4 years after treatment. Reported pain, as indicated by visual analogue scale (VAS) score, significantly decreased from baseline to the final follow-up examination in both groups. Mean VAS score decreased from 64 to 16 (P < 0.001) in the A-group and from 63 to 25 (P < 0.001) in the AS-group. Average maximum incisor opening increased significantly in both groups but did not significantly differ between groups (P = 0.223). Joint sounds did not significantly improve within groups (A-group, P = 0.495; AS-group, P = 0.236). Both methods resulted in significant long-term improvements in pain and jaw function.

Arthrocentesis of Temporomandibular Joint- Bridging the Gap Between Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatment

The temporomandibular joint forms one of the most fascinating and complex synovial joints in the body. Movements of the temporomandibular joint are regulated by an intricate neurological controlling mechanism, which is essential for the system to function normally and efficiently. Lack of such harmony may cause disruptive muscle behavior or structural damage to any of the components. The management of refractory pain and dysfunctions in the temporomandibular joint poses challenge both to the oral physician and maxillofacial surgeon. Arthrocentesis is a simple, minimally invasive technique that can be used instead of more invasive procedures in patients with pain that fails to respond to conventional conservative measures. This review provides a full comprehensive overview of the literature about the various technical and prognostic aspects in relation to arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint, and every clinician must take into account this consideration when performing this procedure in treating patients with temporomandibular disorders.

Efficacy of viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid in temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic review of the viscosupplementation effectiveness with hyaluronic acid (HA) in the articular Temporomandibular Dysfunctions (TMDs) clinical management.

METHOD

Electronic searches were performed in the following databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, LILACS, BBO, SIGLE (System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe), ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBec). Only randomized clinical trials that evaluated the intra-articular administration of HA or its derivatives in osteoarthritis and/or anterior displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc were included. The primary outcomes evaluated were patients' self-report of pain and/or discomfort in the TMJ. Each study was assessed for the risk of bias, using the Cochrane collaboration's risk of bias tool.

RESULTS

A total of 640 studies were obtained in the electronic search. After the application of the eligibility criteria, manual search, and duplicate removal, 21 articles were included. Five articles classified their volunteers with internal derangements of the TMJ, in 4 articles the treatment was directed to participants with disc displacement with reduction and the other articles evaluated HA therapy in osteoarthritis. The protocols presented heterogeneity, varying in the form of application, associated or not with arthrocentesis, number of applications, molecular weight, dose and concentration. Nine studies presented high risk of bias.

CONCLUSION

Due to the heterogeneity and methodological inconsistencies of the studies evaluated, it was not possible to establish the efficacy of HA in articular TMDs.

Effectiveness of Sequential Viscosupplementation in Temporomandibular Joint Internal Derangements and Symptomatology: A Case Series

Viscosupplementation is a minimally invasive technique that replaces synovial fluid by intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HA). Although effective in some joints, there is not conclusive evidence regarding temporomandibular disorders. This case series described the efficacy of a viscosupplementation protocol in intra-articular temporomandibular disorders. Ten patients with a diagnosis of disc displacement and/or osteoarthritis by Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) were submitted to four monthly injections of low or medium molecular weight HA. Pain, mandibular function, image analysis by tomography and magnetic resonance, and quality of life were assessed at baseline and follow-ups (1 and 6 months). Pain, jaw range-of-motion, mandibular function, and quality of life improved at follow-up evaluations. Osteoarthritis changes decreased, and 20% of patients improved mandibular head excursion after treatment. Resolution of effusion and improvement in disc morphology were observed for most patients. This viscosupplementation protocol reduced pain and symptoms associated with internal derangement of temporomandibular joint, improved quality of life, and showed benefits from both low and medium molecular weight HA in alternate cycles.

Is Hyaluronic Acid or Corticosteroid Superior to Lactated Ringer Solution in the Short-Term Reduction of Temporomandibular Joint Pain After Arthrocentesis? Part 1

PURPOSE

Arthrocentesis has been used for the management of patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, with good success. The additional use of hyaluronic acid (HA) or corticosteroid (CS) remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to compare HA, CS, and lactated Ringer solution (LR; placebo) after arthrocentesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective multicenter double-blinded randomized clinical trial. Consecutive patients presenting to the oral and maxillofacial departments at Emory University, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of California-Los Angeles, the University of Cincinnati, and the Oregon Health Sciences University were enrolled in the study. Patients were randomized to HA, CS, or LR. All patients underwent arthrocentesis and then the instillation of HA, CS, or LR. Patients were evaluated clinically at 1 and 3 months. The primary outcome variable was pain at 1 month (by visual analog scale). Secondary outcome variables were pain at 3 months and analgesic consumption. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate statistics were computed, with a P value less than .05 considered significant.

RESULTS

One hundred two patients were enrolled in the study. Four were lost to follow-up, leaving 98 patients for the final analysis. The mean age of patients in the HA, CS, and LR groups was 39.6, 44.3, and 51.8 years, respectively (P = .02). There was no difference among groups in time to follow-up at 1 month (P = .11). The mean decrease in pain in the CS group was 19% for right-side procedures (P = .12) and 36% for left-side procedures (P = .02). The mean decrease in pain in the HA group was 31% for right-side procedures (P = .01) and 34% for left-side procedures (P = .01). The mean decrease in pain in the LR group was 43% for right-side procedures (P < .01) and 37% for left-side procedures (P < .01). There was no difference in pain decrease among groups (P = .55). There was no difference in the use of narcotic (P = .52) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (P = .71) among groups.

CONCLUSION

Arthrocentesis alone is as efficacious as arthrocentesis with HA or CS in decreasing TMJ pain.

Differences Regarding Branded HA in Italy, Part 2: Data from Clinical Studies on Knee, Hip, Shoulder, Ankle, Temporomandibular Joint, Vertebral Facets, and Carpometacarpal Joint

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the current study is to collect scientific data on all branded hyaluronic acid (HA) products in Italy that are in use for intra-articular (IA) injection in osteoarthritis (OA) compared with that reported in the leaflet.

METHODS

An extensive literature research was performed for all articles reporting data on the IA use of HA in OA. Selected studies were taken into consideration only if they are related to products based on HAs that are currently marketed in Italy with the specific joint indication for IA use in patients affected by OA.

RESULTS

Sixty-two HA products are marketed in Italy: 30 products are indicated for the knee but only 8 were proved with some efficacy; 9 products were effective for the hip but only 6 had hip indication; 7 products proved to be effective for the shoulder but only 3 had the indication; 5 products proved effective for the ankle but only one had the indication; 6 products were effective for the temporomandibular joint but only 2 had the indication; only 2 proved effective for vertebral facet joints but only 1 had the indication; and 5 products proved effective for the carpometacarpal joint but only 2 had the indication.

CONCLUSIONS

There are only a few products with some evidences, while the majority of products remain without proof. Clinicians and regulators should request postmarketing studies from pharmaceuticals to corroborate with that reported in the leaflet and to gather more data, allowing the clinicians to choose the adequate product for the patient.

Efficacy of hyaluronic acid injections in patients with osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint. A comparative study

The aim of the present study was to report the 1-year therapeutic outcome of intra-articular injections of high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (HA) without arthrocentesis in a group of 25 patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The results were compared with those of a group of 10 patients with OA of the TMJ, treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.Twenty-five patients (group A) underwent a cycle of 5 injections of HA into the TMJ. Ten patients (group B) underwent a therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for 1 month. The follow-up assessments after the end of treatment were at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.Regarding the first follow-up (1 month), statistical analysis for all clinical parameters showed no significant differences (ie, beneficial effect for 2 groups) between groups A and B (P > 0.001). Significant statistical differences (ie, encouraging effect for group A) for all clinical parameters were recorded 1 year after the end of treatment between groups A and B (P < 0.001).A cycle of 5 intra-articular injections of HA without arthrocentesis for patients with OA of the TMJ is considered successful at 1-year follow-up period.

An assessment of the usefulness of Kinesiograph as an aid in the diagnosis of TMD: a review of Manfredini et al.'s studies

AIM

Performing a literature review of publications by Dr. Manfredini et al. related to their temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injection therapy outcome with conclusions on the clinical utility of computerized measurement devices used in the management of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). In addition, reviewing their published opinion on an occlusion: TMD versus a biopsychosocial paradigm for TMD. Manfredini et al. authored an article published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) 2013, "An Assessment of the usefulness of jaw kinesiography in monitoring temporomandibular disorders," the most recent of 12 articles. In all studies, subjects received TMJ injections with an objective measurement outcome criterion; increased maximum mouth opening (MMO) and subjective symptom improvement of pain and chewing function. In the 2013 JADA article, the Mandibular Kinesiograph, referred to as KG, measured MMO before and after therapy. In 11 prior articles, all subject groups with limited mouth opening exhibited very significant increased MMO post-treatment, documenting treatment success using the same 2013 protocol. The 2013 study showed a 1·1 mm improved MMO, described as insignificant. The authors did not critique or explain the aberrant, skewed 2013 outcome data contrasted with their prior studies, which showed overwhelmingly significant increased MMO. Instead, they concluded that the MMO recording device was clinically useless. This motivated a literature review of the authors' TMD publications.

CONCLUSION

The publications by Manfredini et al. recognized proponents of the psychosocial model of TMD, including the 2013 article, appear to be part of a campaign denying an occlusion: TMD relationship and disparaging the specific computerized measurement devices and the dentists using them in the management of their TMD patients using neuromuscular occlusion dental treatment.

Intra-articular injections with corticosteroids and sodium hyaluronate for treating temporomandibular joint disorders: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

In some cases, conservative treatment of internal derangements of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is considered little responsive. Thus, it is necessary to accomplish treatments that aim at reducing pain and improve function in patients who present arthrogenic temporomandibular disorders.

OBJECTIVE

This study, by means of a systematic review of the literature, aimed to analyze the effectiveness of intra-articular injections with corticosteroids and sodium hyaluronate for treating internal derangements of the TMJ.

METHODS

Carry out a research in the following databases: MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Pubmed, Lilacs, and BBO, considering publications issued between 1966 and October 2010, focusing on randomized or quasi-randomized controlled clinical trials, single or double-blind.

RESULTS

After applying the inclusion criteria we collected 9 articles, 7 of which were randomized controlled double-blind clinical trials and 2 randomized controlled single-blind clinical trials.

CONCLUSION

After analyzing the literature, it was found that intra-articular injection with corticosteroids and sodium hyaluronate seems to be an effective method for treating internal derangements of the TMJ. However, further randomized controlled clinical trials, with representative samples and longer follow-up time must be carried out in order to assess the real effectiveness of this technique.

Comparison of 2 hyaluronic acid drugs for the treatment of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis

PURPOSE

To compare the effectiveness of 2 treatment protocols providing 5 weekly temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthrocenteses immediately followed by injections of 2 different molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) drugs to manage symptoms in patients with inflammatory-degenerative TMJ disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with a Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders diagnosis of osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 study groups receiving either low- or medium-molecular weight HA after arthrocentesis. The level of maximum pain at chewing was the primary outcome variable, and maximum pain at rest, subjective chewing efficiency, functional limitation, treatment tolerability, perceived treatment effectiveness, and jaw range-of-motion function in millimeters were the secondary outcomes. All variables were assessed and compared between groups at baseline, at the end of treatment, and 3 months later.

RESULTS

Forty subjects entered the study. At the end of the follow-up period, all the outcome variables improved in both groups of patients. A between-group comparison of changes over time showed that differences were not significant for any of the outcome variables, that is, pain at chewing (F = 0.056, P = .815), pain at rest (F = 0.383, P = .541), chewing efficiency (F = 0.050, P = .825), functional limitation (F = 0.268, P = .609), and mouth opening (F = 0.003, P = .954). In addition, no between-group differences were shown for perceived treatment effectiveness and treatment tolerability.

CONCLUSIONS

Similar positive effectiveness was shown for 2 treatment protocols for TMJ osteoarthritis (ie, 5-session single-needle arthrocentesis plus low- or medium-molecular weight HA).

Interventions for the management of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and can often lead to severe pain in the orofacial region. Management options for TMJ OA include reassurance, occlusal appliances, physical therapy, medication in addition to several surgical modalities.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of different surgical and non-surgical therapeutic options for the management of TMJ OA in adult patients.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following databases: the Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials Register (to 26 September 2011); CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2011, Issue 3); MEDLINE via OVID (1950 to 26 September 2011); EMBASE via OVID (1980 to 26 September 2011); and PEDro (1929 to 26 September 2011). There were no language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any form of non-surgical or surgical therapy for TMJ OA in adults over the age of 18 with clinical and/or radiological diagnosis of TMJ OA according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) guideline or compatible criteria.Primary outcomes considered were pain/tenderness/discomfort in the TMJs or jaw muscles, self assessed range of mandibular movement and TMJ sounds. Secondary outcomes included the measurement of quality of life or patient satisfaction evaluated with a validated questionnaire, morphological changes of the TMJs assessed by imaging, TMJ sounds assessed by auscultation and any adverse effects.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors screened and extracted information and data from, and independently assessed the risk of bias in the included trials.

MAIN RESULTS

Although three RCTs were included in this review, pooling of data in a meta-analysis was not possible due to wide clinical diversity between the studies. The reports indicate a not dissimilar degree of effectiveness with intra-articular injections consisting of either sodium hyaluronate or corticosteroid preparations, and an equivalent pain reduction with diclofenac sodium as compared with occlusal splints. Glucosamine appeared to be just as effective as ibuprofen for the management of TMJ OA.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In view of the paucity of high level evidence for the effectiveness of interventions for the management of TMJ OA, small parallel group RCTs which include participants with a clear diagnosis of TMJ OA should be encouraged and especially studies evaluating some of the possible surgical interventions.

Arthrocentesis with or without additional drugs in temporomandibular joint inflammatory-degenerative disease: comparison of six treatment protocols*

The aim of the present pilot investigation was to compare the effectiveness of six treatment protocols providing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthrocentesis with or without additional drugs to manage symptoms in patients with inflammatory-degenerative TMJ disease. A consecutive series of 72 patients with TMJ osteoarthritis (axis group IIIb) with pain lasting from more than 6 months were randomly assigned to one of the groups receiving the following treatment protocols: single-session two-needle arthrocentesis (A), single-session two-needle arthrocentesis plus corticosteroid (B), single-session two-needle arthrocentesis plus low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) (C), single-session two-needle arthrocentesis plus high molecular weight HA (D), 5 weekly two-needle arthrocenteses plus low molecular weight HA (E) and 5 weekly single-needle arthrocenteses plus low molecular weight HA (F). At the 3-month follow-up, improvement with respect to mean baseline values was recorded in all the five treatment groups completing the protocol. No significant differences emerged between groups in any outcome variable. The protocol providing five sessions of two-needle arthrocenteses plus low molecular weight HA allowed achieving the highest improvement in almost all the outcome variables. Findings suggested that no statistically significant differences existed between the treatment groups. The clinical significance of these findings needs to be tested with future studies on larger samples with longer follow-up periods.

Preliminary evaluation of histological changes found in a mechanical arthropatic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) exposed to an intra-articular Hyaluronic acid (HA) injection, in a rat model

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the histological effects of Hyaluronic acid injections in the treatment of induced temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis in rats.

STUDY DESIGN

Twenty-four male Wister rats were subjected to induced mechanical osteoarthritis by manual hypermobility for 10 successive days. Animals were then divided into two groups; group I (control) and group II (experimental). Ten days after the induction of hypermobility, the right TMJ of the experimental animals was injected with a dose of 0.12 mg HA intra-articularly and 0.12 mg saline was injected into the left joint; while animals in the control group were left without any treatment. Two rats from group I were killed at one, two and six weeks; while 6 animals from group II were killed at one, two and four weeks post injection.

RESULTS

The disk of the right joints in the experimental animals was of normal thickness and there was an increase in the thickness of the fibrocartilagenous layer. In the left joint; ulcerative changes in the disk were evident where the fibres were not well oriented and scalloped areas in the temporal bone area were present denoting osteoclastic activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeated intra-articular TMJ injection of Hyaluronic acid appears to be a safe and effective way of inhibiting the progression of osteoarthritic changes in the joint through development of articular cartilage and reducing fibrous tissue proliferation.

Predictive factors of hyaluronic acid injections short-term effectiveness for TMJ degenerative joint disease

This study attempted to identify baseline predictors of positive outcome of arthrocenteses plus hyaluronic acid injections in degenerative temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ DJD). Ninety (n=90) consecutive patients with Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders TMJ osteoarthritis (RDC/TMD 1.0 Axis I Group IIIb) underwent a cycle of five arthrocenteses with injections of 1mL hyaluronic acid and were followed up for 3months. Eight potential predictors of positive treatment outcome (sex, age, pain duration, baseline pain at chewing, presence of uni- or bilateral arthritis, presence of other concurrent RDC/TMD diagnoses, type of intervention and tolerability of treatment) were included in a logistic regression model to identify baseline predictors of treatment effectiveness. At follow-up, 85·6% of patients improved with respect to baseline VAS values, and 64·4% had a 50% or more decrease (positive outcomes). Correlation with positive outcomes existed only for unilateral osteoarthritis, and the logistic regression identified the side of arthritis (unilateral/bilateral) as the only predictor of positive treatment outcome (P=0·032). The achievement of any treatment improvement was predicted by high baseline pain levels (P=0·016). The regression models explained only 7·7-15% of the variance in the outcome variable. The attempts to find predictors of positive treatment outcome with HA injections for TMJ degenerative joint disease have been successful only in part. The search for other outcome predictors is likely to benefit from the assessment of psychosocial features associated with TMJ disorders.

Short-term effects of arthrocentesis plus viscosupplementation in the management of signs and symptoms of painful TMJ disc displacement with reduction. A pilot study

AIM

To provide data on the short-term effect of a cycle of five weekly arthrocenteses plus hyaluronic acid injections in the management of signs and symptoms of painful disc displacements.

METHODS

Thirty-one consecutive patients (25 females, six males; mean age 42.4) with a combined diagnosis of disc displacement with reduction and arthralgia according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders underwent a cycle of five arthrocenteses with injections (one per week) of 1 ml hyaluronic acid. A number of subjective and objective clinical parameters were assessed at the time of the diagnosis (baseline), at each appointment during the treatment, at the end of the treatment, and three follow-up appointments (1 week, 1 month, and 3 months).

RESULTS

At the end of the treatment period, marked improvements with respect to baseline values were recorded in all the outcomes variables, and they were maintained over the 3-month follow-up span. Significant changes were shown in subjective outcome variables, viz., masticatory efficiency, maximum pain levels, functional limitation, perceived efficacy, and objective clinical parameters, viz., jaw range of motion on different movements. Tolerability of treatment was acceptable since the first intervention and was moderately improved over time.

CONCLUSIONS

A cycle of five weekly hyaluronic acid injections performed immediately following arthrocentesis is effective to improve signs and symptoms in patients with painful temporomandibular joint disc displacement with reduction and to maintain them over a 3-month follow-up.

Effects of intra-articular administration of sodium hyaluronate on plasminogen activator system in temporomandibular joints with osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of intra-articular sodium hyaluronate (SH) injections on the main components of plasminogen activator (PA) system in the synovial fluid of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis (OA).

STUDY DESIGN

Forty patients diagnosed with TMJ OA and 20 healthy control subjects were included in this study. Synovial fluid was collected in the OA group and the healthy group at baseline. The OA patients were randomly divided into 2 groups (20 patients for each group): One group received 5 injections of SH, and the other received 5 injections of physiologic saline solution in the upper joint space at weekly intervals. Synovial fluid was collected before and after treatment. Urokinase-type PA (uPA), soluble uPA receptor (suPAR) and PA inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) levels in synovial fluid were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

The OA patients had significantly higher uPA activity and levels of uPA (median 80.01 ng/L), suPAR (median 7.54 ng/L), and PAI-1 (median 54.9 ng/mL) than the healthy control subjects (median 20.47 ng/L uPA, 2.34 ng/L suPAR, and 19.9 ng/mL PAI-1; (P < .05). The uPA activity and levels of uPA, suPAR, and PAI-1 were significantly decreased after SH injections in TMJs of OA patients (P < .05), and there was no difference after saline injection. Visual analog pain score reduction correlated with changes in uPA and uPAR levels as well as uPA activity.

CONCLUSION

The effects of SH on PA system provide new insight into a possible underlying mechanism by which SH alleviates pain of patients with TMJ OA.

Sodium hyaluronate improves outcomes after arthroscopic lysis and lavage in patients with Wilkes stage III and IV disease

PURPOSE

Among patients with Wilkes stage III and IV disease undergoing arthroscopic lysis and lavage, does the use of an intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate (SH), when compared with Ringer lavage, result in better postoperative pain control and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function?

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We designed and implemented a randomized, double-blind, pilot controlled clinical trial. The study sample was composed of patients with middle Wilkes stage (late stage III and early stage IV) disease. Subjects were randomized to 1 of 2 treatment limbs. The treatment group received Ringer lactate plus an injection of 1 mL of SH after arthroscopy, whereas the control group was given Ringer lactate during arthroscopy. The primary outcome variables were pain and TMJ function measured by use of visual analog scales. Appropriate descriptive and bivariate statistics were computed. A P value less than .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The study sample was composed of 40 patients with 20 subjects enrolled in both treatment groups. There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of demographics and preoperative variables. Postoperative analgesia was statistically significant in the treatment group with respect to the control group on the visits on days 14 and 84. No statistically significant differences were observed between the 2 groups in the maximum interincisal opening and tolerance.

CONCLUSIONS

An intra-articular injection of SH after arthroscopic lysis and lavage is effective in reducing pain in patients with TMJ dysfunction, enhancing postsurgical recovery. The analgesic effect of treatment with SH is maintained in the long term.

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis: an open label trial of 76 patients treated with arthrocentesis plus hyaluronic acid injections

This study is an open-label trial on a sample of 76 consecutive patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis treated with a cycle of five weekly arthrocenteses plus hyaluronic acid injections. Patients had a diagnosis of osteoarthritis according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD Axis I Group IIIb). They underwent a cycle of five arthrocenteses with injections (1 per week) of 1ml hyaluronic acid and four follow-up assessments after the end of the treatment (at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months). At each appointment, several subjective and objective outcome variables were assessed to test the efficacy of the treatment protocol. Marked improvements were reported for all variables during the treatment phase. The improvements were maintained over the 6-month follow-up period. The p-value of the multivariate permutation test for the efficacy of the treatment over time (with Tippett's combination) was 0.001, and significant changes at the end of the follow-up period were detected for almost all the outcome variables. Data from this study lend further support to the usefulness of serial hyaluronic acid injections performed after arthrocentesis for the treatment of TMJ osteoarthritis and for the maintenance of improvements over a 6-month follow-up period.

Emerging intra-articular drug delivery systems for the temporomandibular joint

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a heterogeneous group of diseases that cause progressive joint degeneration leading to chronic pain and reduced quality of life. Both effective pain reduction and restoration of TMJ function remain unmet challenges. Intra-articular injections of corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid are currently used to treat chronic pain, but these methods require multiple injections that increase the risk of iatrogenic joint damage and other complications. The small and emerging field of TMJ tissue engineering aims to reduce pain and disability through novel strategies that induce joint tissue regeneration. Development of methods for sustained, intra-articular release of growth factors and other pro-regenerative signals will be critical for the success of TMJ tissue engineering strategies. This review discusses methods of intra-articular drug delivery to the TMJ, as well as emerging injectable controlled release systems with potential to improve TMJ drug delivery, to encourage further research in the development of sustained release systems for both long-term pain management and to enhance tissue engineering strategies for TMJ regeneration.

Arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint: a proposal for a single-needle technique

Arthrocentesis is a method of flushing out the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that is currently performed by providing a double access to the joint space. Several studies have shown that arthrocentesis of the upper compartment of the TMJ may be a highly effective method to restore normal maximal mouth opening and functioning. Nonetheless, the classical 2-needle technique has some limits, such as the low tolerability and difficulty in performing it in the presence of intra-articular adherences. The adoption of a single-needle for both fluid injection and aspiration might have some advantages with respect to the traditional 2-needle approach in terms of time of execution, tolerability, and retention of medication. These potential advantages have to be assessed with future randomized and controlled clinical trials.

Injection of sodium hyaluronate compared to a corticosteroid in the treatment of patients with temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis: a CT evaluation

OBJECTIVE

Osseous changes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) were evaluated using computed tomography (CT) examinations before and after TMJ injections of sodium hyaluronate or a corticosteroid in patients with osteoarthritis (OA).

STUDY DESIGN

Forty patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups for 2 intra-articular injections with either sodium hyaluronate or a corticosteroid. Bilateral TMJ examinations with high resolution CT were obtained in 36 patients before and 6 months after treatment. Treated and contralateral TMJs were evaluated for the presence of osteoarthritic osseous abnormalities by 2 reviewers independently.

RESULTS

Progression, regression, and no changes of osseous abnormalities were demonstrated in 13, 9, and 14 TMJs, respectively, 6 months after treatment. There was no significant difference between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Progression/regression and no changes of osteoarthritic abnormalities were observed on CT examinations in both the treated and the contralateral TMJs after treatment with intra-articular injection with sodium hyaluronate or corticosteroid.

Osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint: an evaluation of the effects and complications of corticosteroid injection compared with injection with sodium hyaluronate

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and the complications of intra-articular temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injections in 40 patients with osteoarthritis of the TMJ. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups, and the patients received either two intra-articular injections with sodium hyaluronate or two intra-articular injections with corticosteroids, 14 days apart. The effect of the treatment was evaluated 14 days, 1 and 6 months after the initial injection and was based on the following measurements: pain intensity, pain localization, joint sounds, mandibular function and complications. Both groups of patients had less pain intensity at the 6-month follow-up, and there was significantly less pain intensity in the group of patients receiving sodium hyaluronate compared with corticosteroids (P = 0.001). A decrease in crepitation was seen in both groups. In the 20 subjects receiving sodium hyaluronate both the mandibular vertical opening and protrusion increased significantly (P < 0.000). Lateral movement from the affected side increased both in subjects injected with sodium hyaluronate (P = 0.024), and those injected with corticosteroids (P = 0.042). In conclusion, this study confirms that injections in the TMJ with sodium hyaluronate or corticosteroids may reduce pain and improve function in patients with osteoarthritis. The injections were more effective in patients with only TMJ pain compared with patients suffering from both TMJ and myofascial pain. Injection with sodium hyaluronate was significantly more effective in decreasing pain intensity than corticosteroids. Temporary pain after injections may be observed.

Temporomandibular joint total replacement prosthesis: current knowledge and considerations for the future

This paper provides a review of the current knowledge of temporomandibular joint total replacement systems. An electronic Medline search was performed to identify all the relevant English-language, peer-reviewed articles published during 1990-2006. Twenty-eight references were considered for review, seven of which were reviews, 17 clinical trials or case series, and four single-patient case reports. Therapeutic outcomes were encouraging for all three total prosthetic systems for which follow-up data from a consistent sample of patients exist. A lack of homogeneity between studies in patient selection and indications for the intervention was noted. A better integration between clinical and research settings is needed to achieve a standardized definition of the rationale and indications for total temporomandibular joint replacement. Findings from the available studies are promising, and need to be confirmed by multicenter trials taking into account interoperator variability.