Effect of dextrose prolotherapy on internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of dextrose prolotherapy in treating internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 20 patients with temporomandibular joint internal derangement were enrolled in the study. The diagnosis of internal derangement was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The posterior and anterior disc attachment, as well as the most tender part of the masseter muscle, were injected with 12.5% dextrose. Pain, maximum mouth opening, clicking, and deviation were assessed immediately before treatment, as well as at 2-, 4-, and 12- weeks post-treatment.

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement in the four clinical variables at the three-time intervals. Pain at two weeks was reduced by 60% (6 vs. 3.75) and by 200% (6 vs. 1.9) at 4 weeks. The maximum mouth opening was increased by 6.4 mm at 2 weeks and 7.85 mm at 4 weeks. The percentage of patients with clicking decreased from 70%, preoperatively- to 50% at 2 weeks, 15% at 4 weeks, and 5% at 12 weeks. The ratio of patients with deviation was decreased from 80% preoperatively to 35% at 2 weeks, 15% at 4 weeks, and 5% at 12 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for alleviating the symptoms of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint.

Bilateral Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation Following Arthrocentesis Plus Hyaluronic Acid Injection

Arthrocentesis plus intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) injection for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders is known to be a safe and minimally invasive surgical procedure. Arthrocentesis plus HA injection has a pain-reducing effect on TMJ disorders. It is also a palliative treatment that yields positive results in terms of clinical findings such as clicking and mouth opening. Even though some complications have been reported after the performance of this highly successful procedure, the development of bilateral TMJ dislocation after arthrocentesis plus intra-articular HA injection has not been reported to date. This case report presents bilateral TMJ dislocation following arthrocentesis plus intra-articular HA injection that developed within a few hours and resisted manual Hippocrates manoeuvre in a 21-year male. Herein, his treatment with systemic corticosteroid therapy, myorelaxant and anti-inflammatory drugs is also presented. Key Words: Arthrocentesis, Hyaluronic acid, Joint dislocation, Temporomandibular joint, Steroids.

Botulinum Neurotoxin Injection for the Treatment of Recurrent Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation with and without Neurogenic Muscular Hyperactivity

The aim of this study was to compare treatment outcomes following intramuscular injection of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) in patients with recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation, with and without muscle hyperactivity due to neurological diseases. Thirty-two patients (19 women and 13 men, mean age: 62.3 years) with recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation were divided into two groups: neurogenic (8 women and 12 men) and habitual (11 women and 1 man). The neurogenic group included patients having neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease or oromandibular dystonia, that are accompanied by muscle hyperactivity. BoNT was administered via intraoral injection to the inferior head of the lateral pterygoid muscle. In total, BoNT injection was administered 102 times (mean 3.2 times/patient). The mean follow-up duration was 29.5 months. The neurogenic group was significantly (p < 0.001) younger (47.3 years) than the habitual group (84.8 years) and required significantly (p < 0.01) more injections (4.1 versus 1.7 times) to achieve a positive outcome. No significant immediate or delayed complications occurred. Thus, intramuscular injection of BoNT into the lateral pterygoid muscle is an effective and safe treatment for habitual temporomandibular joint dislocation. More injections are required in cases of neurogenic temporomandibular joint dislocation than in those of habitual dislocation without muscle hyperactivity.

Recurrent TMJ Dislocation Managed with Botulinum Toxin Type A Injections in a Pediatric Patient

Chronic recurrent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation is an uncommon condition that is painful and distressing to patients and uniquely challenging for clinicians. Sustained TMJ dislocation is not amenable to manual reduction alone when the etiology is muscular in nature. The purpose of this report was to describe the case of a child presenting with recurring temporomandibular joint dislocation secondary to muscle hyperactivity of unknown etiology that was managed with injections of botulinum toxin type A into the inferior lateral pterygoid muscles. The use of this peripheral antispasmoic neurotoxin is a reasonable, safe, and conservative, palliative treatment option for pediatric patients suffering from chronic recurring TMJ dislocation.

Temporomandibular joint orthopedics with anterior repositioning appliance therapy and therapeutic injections

TMD orthopedics is the assessment, diagnosis and management of orthopedic disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Anterior repositioning appliance (ARA) therapy for TMJ internal derangements is successful in long-term recapturing of disks in reducing and nonreducing joints at a rate of 64 percent and in regenerating degenerated condyles in some cases. ARA therapy for TMJ internal derangements is subjectively successful in relieving symptoms in reducing and nonreducing disk displacement TMJs in this study at an average rate of 94.5 percent.

The efficacy of dextrose prolotherapy for temporomandibular joint hypermobility: a preliminary prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of dextrose prolotherapy for the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) hypermobility.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical study using a placebo control was carried out. Twelve patients with painful subluxation or dislocation of the TMJ were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 equal-sized groups. Patients in the active group received 4 injections of dextrose solution (2 mL of 10% dextrose and 1 mL of 2% mepivacaine) for each TMJ, each 6 weeks apart, whereas patients in the placebo group received injections of placebo solution (2 mL of saline solution and 1 mL of 2% mepivacaine) on the same schedule. A verbal scale expressing TMJ pain on palpation, maximal mouth opening (MMO), clicking sound, and frequency of luxations (number of locking episodes per month) were assessed at each injection appointment just before the injection procedure and 3 months after the last injection. The collected data were then statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

By the end of the study, each group showed significant improvement in TMJ pain on palpation and number of locking episodes and insignificant improvement in clicking sound. With the exception of the MMO, there were no statistically significant differences throughout the study intervals between the active and placebo groups. The active group showed a significant reduction in MMO at the 12th week postoperatively. Differences compared with mean baseline value remained significant at the end of the follow-up period. On the other hand, the placebo group showed an insignificant difference in MMO throughout the study periods. For the last 2 intervals, the placebo group showed statistically significantly higher mean MMO values than the active group. By the end of the 12th postoperative week, the percentages of decrease in MMO were significantly greater in the active group.

CONCLUSION

Prolotherapy with 10% dextrose appears promising for the treatment of symptomatic TMJ hypermobility, as evidenced by the therapeutic benefits, simplicity, safety, patients' acceptance of the injection technique, and lack of significant side effects. However, continued research into prolotherapy's effectiveness in patient populations with large sample sizes and long-term follow-up is needed.

[Treatment of recurrent dislocation of the temporomandibular joint with botulinum toxin: an alternative approach]

Repeated injections of botulinum toxin carried out at regular intervals are an effective means to treat otherwise treatment-resistant recurrent dislocation of the temporomandibular joint. The treatment can be performed simply and safely without electromyography (EMG) or imaging control by a specialist having expertise in the anatomy of the region. In a patient described by us, a previously treatment-resistant condition has been successfully treated in this way for three years.

Treatment of neglected elbow dislocations with combination of speed V-Y muscleplasty and intra-articular injection of hydrocorticosone

Neglected dislocations of the elbow are not uncommon in developing countries. We report case series of 3 cases of neglected dislocations of elbow. All the three cases were treated by combination of Speeds procedure and intraarticular injection of 25mg of hydrocorticosone acetate in 5 ml of distilled water. Mean time from injury was 5 months and mean follow-up was 10 months. According to Mayo Elbow Performance Index, 2 outcomes were excellent and 1 outcome was good.

Effect of injection of botulinum toxin on lateral pterygoid muscle used together with the arthroscopy in patients with anterior disk displacement of the temporomandibular joint

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we aimed to study the effects of an additional lateral pterygoid muscle (LPM), botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A) injection on arthroscopic lysis, lavage and posterior band coagulations. Subjective and objective measures have been documented.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fourty-three subjects (6 females, 37 males; mean age 35 years; range 15 to 48 years) with 52 joints were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into two groups. The first group was treated with arthroscopic lysis, lavage and posterior band coagulation. The second group received an injection of 20 U of BTX-A to the LPM in addition to the former treatment. Patients were assessed statistically in the 1st week, and in the 1st, 3rd and 6th months postoperatively with the measures of lateral deviations, protrusions and visual analogue scale (VAS) values using Student-t test.

RESULTS

Group 1 and group 2 showed significant results within themselves with the exception of the 3rd month values of right deviations in group 1. When groups were compared with each other; significant results were observed in left deviation values only in the 3rd month, protrusion in the 1st month, and most importantly VAS values starting from the 1st month.

CONCLUSION

Botulinum toxin-A injection to the LPM mostly improved subjective measures starting from the 1st month. Other objective measures like protrusions, and deviations were not found to be affected generally. These findings suggest the improvement of symptoms with BTX-A injections in additon to the standard arthroscopy. However, diminishing effect of BTX-A and lack of information on the exact mechanism of action of toxin on temporomandibular joint necessitate further studies on this topic.

Randomized effectiveness study of four therapeutic strategies for TMJ closed lock

For individuals with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc displacement without reduction with limited mouth opening (closed lock), interventions vary from minimal treatment to surgery. In a single-blind trial, 106 individuals with TMJ closed lock were randomized among medical management, rehabilitation, arthroscopic surgery with post-operative rehabilitation, or arthroplasty with post-operative rehabilitation. Evaluations at baseline, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 60 months used the Craniomandibular Index (CMI) and Symptom Severity Index (SSI) for jaw function and TMJ pain respectively. Using an intention-to-treat analysis, we observed no between-group difference at any follow-up for CMI (p > or = 0.33) or SSI (p > or = 0.08). Both outcomes showed within-group improvement (p < 0.0001) for all groups. The findings of this study suggest that primary treatment for individuals with TMJ closed lock should consist of medical management or rehabilitation. The use of this approach will avoid unnecessary surgical procedures.

Short-term therapeutic outcome of intra-articular high molecular weight hyaluronic acid injection for nonreducing disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint

In a patient with temporomandibular disorder who does not respond to conservative treatment, treatment with intra-articular injection of high molecular weight sodium hyaluronate can be suggested. In our study, 27 patients with nonreduced disc displacement were diagnosed clinically and confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The age range was from 21 to 63 years old, with a mean of 39.3 years. Two cycles of injection of high molecular weight sodium hyaluronate was performed on alternative weeks. Pain intensity was measured by the visual analog scale. Maximal mouth opening, clicking joint noise, and lateral movement were measured before and after injection for more than 6 months. Reduction of pain intensity and improvement in the maximum mouth opening parameter was statistically significant. In conclusion, this intra-articular injection using high molecular weight sodium hyaluronate looks very positive for patients affected by nonreduced disc displacement and is encouraged to be used as a primary treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

Treatment of severe temporomandibular joint clicking with botulinum toxin in the lateral pterygoid muscle in two cases of anterior disc displacement

A novel treatment procedure is introduced for severe clicking of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) associated with anterior disc displacement (ADD), using injections with botulinum toxin (BTX-A) in the lateral pterygoid muscle (LP). It has been suggested that ADD may be caused, precipitated, or maintained by LP activity, but the role of the LP in the dynamics of the TMJ clicking is uncertain. The case report includes 2 women, followed with clinical examinations, TMJ imaging, and electromyography (EMG), in whom local anesthetics in the LP could abolish the clicking for several days. BTX-A block of the LP (30 U Botox, given twice under EMG guidance with 6-month interval) temporarily reduced the action of the muscle, but the clicking was permanently eliminated and did not return during the observation period of 1 year, and a small but distinctive positional improvement in the disc-condyle relationship was obtained. However, the precise mechanisms behind the favourable treatment outcome are unclear.

Botulinum Toxin for the Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Disk Disfigurement: Clinical Experience

Type A botulinum toxin was used for the treatment of symptoms of 26 patients (40 joints) with temporomandibular joint disk disfigurement. In all patients, 0.5 ml (12.5 U) was injected into the lateral pterygoid muscle. The temporalis, medial pterygoid, and masseter muscles were injected if severe tenderness was noted. The data were compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test and the McNemar test. With the exception of clicking of the right joint, all mean outcome measures showed a significant difference between the preinjection and postinjection assessments. There was a significant difference between the preinjection and postinjection pain scores of the right joint (P=0.0019) and the left joint (P=0.000). Postinjection values of the mouth opening (P=0.002), subjective functional dysfunction (P=0.065), and clicking of the left joint (P=0.001) also showed a statistically significant difference from the preinjection values. In addition, the severity and frequency of headache were reduced after botulinum toxin-A injection into the lateral pterygoid muscle.

Efficacy and safety of topically applied Symphytum herb extract cream in the treatment of ankle distortion: Results of a randomized controlled clinical double-blind study

In a controlled, double blind, randomized multicentre study, the efficacy and safety of the topical comfrey product Traumaplant (10% active ingredient of a 2.5:1 aqueous ethanolic pressed juice of freshly harvested, cultivated comfrey herb (Symphytum x uplandicum NYMAN), corresponding to 25 g of fresh herb per 100 g of cream; n = 104) was tested against a 1% product (corresponding to 2.5 g of fresh comfrey herb in 100 g of cream; n = 99) in 203 patients with acute ankle distortion. With the high concentration, decrease of the scores for pain on active motion, pain at rest and functional impairment was highly significant and clinically relevant on days T3-4 as well as T7 (p < 0.001). Amelioration of swellings as compared to reference was also significant on day 3-4 (p < 0.01). Efficacy was judged good to excellent in 85.6% of cases with verum and in 65.7% of cases with reference on day 3-4. Overall tolerability was excellent.

Treatment of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation with intramuscular botulinum toxin injection

Recurrent dislocation of the mandibular condyle poses a difficult problem for affected patients. In the course of time, dislocations often become more frequent and more difficult to avoid. Even with good patient compliance, conservative treatment is often not sufficient. Operative procedures have also been described for the treatment of temporomandibular joint dislocation. However, these interventions are invasive, involving open arthrotomy with possible complications, and cannot safely guarantee a successful outcome. On the other hand, botulinum toxin injections into the lateral pterygoid muscles offer the option of a predictable and prolonged period without renewed dislocation. We present the results of this treatment carried out in 21 patients with recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation. Four patients were treated following unsuccessful physical therapy and the use of occlusal splints. The remaining 17 patients were treated for a number of conditions resulting in dislocation, including some with senile dementia and mental impairment in whom compliance with conservative measures was poor or completely absent. Injections were given on a 3-month basis in order to have a sustained effect. Within the study period of 6 months to 3 years, only two of the 21 patients suffered further dislocation. There were no side effects recorded as a result of treatment.

The efficacy of intra-articular sodium hyaluronate in patients with reducing displaced disc of the temporomandibular joint

In this clinical trial, we examined the efficacy of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) treatment in 38 patients with reducing displaced disc of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Subjects received two unilateral upper space injections of HA or physiological saline solution with 1 week apart. Efficacy was based on the following measurements: pain and sound intensity of the joint measured by visual analogue scale (VAS), modified Helkimo's clinical dysfunction index and the intensity of joint vibration during opening and closing the mouth measured by accelerometers. These measurements were performed before the first injection and 1 and 6 months after the last injection. In the treatment group (n=19), all measurements improved significantly at month 1 and at month 6 compared with the baseline (P < 0.01). The same measurements, in the placebo group (n=19), did not show any change, except for the pain intensity which improved at month 1 and month 6 (P < 0.05). The change in baseline measurements of all of the efficacy criteria at month 1 and at month 6 in the treatment group was significantly better compared with the change obtained with placebo at the same time intervals. This study demonstrates that intra-articular sodium hyaluronate (Orthovisc) injection into the TMJ is an effective treatment for a reducing displaced disc.

Evaluation of persistent torticollis following adenoidectomy

Post-operative neck complaints are not an uncommon finding following adenotonsillectomy. However, non-traumatic subluxation of the atlantoaxial joint (Grisel's syndrome) should be considered in cases of persistent neck pain and stiffness. An early diagnosis and adequate treatment of this rare condition is mandatory to prevent potentially serious complications. We describe three cases with persistent torticollis in the post-operative period, discuss the pathogenesis and evaluate the clinical management of these patients.

Effect of pumping with injection of sodium hyaluronate and the other factors related to outcome in patients with non-reducing disk displacement of the temporomandibular joint

We retrospectively examined the effect of pumping with injection of sodium hyaluronate into the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the other factors influencing outcome in patients with non-reducing disk displacement of the TMJ. Fifty-nine patients underwent pumping with injection of sodium hyaluronate into the TMJ. As control, 62 patients were observed without any treatment. Both groups were observed for 12 months. The relation between outcome and the following clinical characteristics was also studied: sex, age, range of motion for maximal mouth opening, TMJ pain, TMJ noise, tenderness of masticatory muscles, locking duration, intercuspal occlusions, angle of posterior slope of articular eminence and degenerative bony changes of the condyle. Logistic regression analysis revealed that pumping with injection of sodium hyaluronate was related to a good outcome. Clinical characteristics of presentation significantly related to a good outcome were a large maximal mouth opening, a short locking duration, and a steep posterior slope of articular eminence. We conclude that pumping with injection of sodium hyaluronate into the TMJ is an effective treatment method for non-reducing disk displacement of the TMJ and that some clinical characteristics also influence outcome.

Randomized clinical trial of primary treatment for temporomandibular joint disk displacement without reduction and without osseous changes: a combination of NSAIDs and mouth-opening exercise versus no treatment

OBJECTIVE

The effectiveness of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and physical therapy for disk displacement without reduction is unknown. This study compared this treatment method with nontreatment controls.

METHODS

Sixty patients with painful disk displacement without reduction and without osseous changes were randomly divided in 2 groups, consisting of NSAID and physical therapy and a nontreated control group. Both groups were observed at 2 weeks and, for those patients who did not show any improvement, again at 4 weeks.

RESULTS

There was 60% improvement in the treatment group compared with 33% in the control group during the entire 4 weeks of the study. The number needed to treat for benefit was 3.75, with a 95% CI 2.103 to 65.935.

CONCLUSIONS

A combination of NSAID and physical therapy for 4 weeks is effective as a primary treatment of patients with disk displacement without reduction and without osseous changes.

Pumping injection of sodium hyaluronate for patients with non-reducing disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint: two year follow-up

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the present study was to examine the long-term effect of pumping injection of sodium hyaluronate into the TMJ in patients with non-reducing disc displacement.

PATIENTS

Sixty patients with non-reducing disc displacement underwent pumping injection of sodium hyaluronate (pumping group). Seventy-six patients with non-reducing disc displacements were observed without any active treatment (observation group).

STUDY DESIGN

In both patient groups clinical signs and symptoms were observed periodically for 2 years. Variables such as age, range of maximum mouth opening, angle of posterior slope of the articular eminence and degenerative bony changes of the condyle at the initial visit were also examined. Cox hazards analysis was applied to examine the clinical outcome for such variables in addition to the results of pumping injection of sodium hyaluronate.

RESULTS

Pumping injection of sodium hyaluronate seemed to have a favourable effect when compared with the control group (untreated) (p = 0.0002). However, the four background variables mentioned could not be explained as predictors of outcome.

CONCLUSION

Pumping injection of sodium hyaluronate seems to be effective for non-reducing disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint.

A randomized double-blind clinical trial of the effect of chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride on temporomandibular joint disorders: a pilot study

Previous studies have shown chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride have beneficial effects on symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee. Our aim was to study the effect of a daily dose of 1500 mg of glucosamine hydrochloride (GH) and 1200 mg of chondroitin sulfate (CS) taken for twelve weeks on subjects diagnosed with capsulitis, disk displacement, disk dislocation, or painful osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Forty-five subjects were enrolled in the study and were randomly assigned to either an active medication group or a placebo group. Eleven subjects were lost from the study for various reasons, resulting in fourteen subjects remaining in the active medication group and twenty subjects remaining in the placebo group. Subjects taking CS-GH had improvements in their pain as measured by one index of the McGill Pain Questionnaire, in TMJ tenderness, in TMJ sounds, and in the number of daily over-the-counter medications needed. Subjects taking the placebo medication had improvements in their pains as measured by the visual analog scale and by four indices of the McGill Pain Questionnaire. Additional studies are required to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of CS-GH and to determine the exact mechanism by which CS-GH affects the articular cartilage of synovial joints.

[Treatment of recurrent luxation of the temporomandibular joint with botulinum toxin]

We report the case of a 70-year-old man who suffered recurrent dislocations of the temporomandibular joint secondary to severe Parkinson syndrome. The patient was given repeated injections of botulinum toxin. After 3 injections over a 9-month period, no further dislocation occurred. Botulinum toxin may be an alternative to surgery.

Use of calcitonin for the treatment of an odontoid fracture. Case report

The authors report on the efficacy of nonsurgical treatment of an older patient with a fractured odontoid process. The patient, an 85-year-old woman, had multiple medical problems that put her at an increased surgery-related risk. Therefore, an alternative approach was elected, including immobilization with a Philadelphia collar and the provision of calcitonin nasal spray. Bone union and clinical recovery were achieved within 8 weeks of initiating the nasal calcitonin therapy (12 weeks postinjury). Considering the patient's age, comorbidities, and the severity of the fracture, the recovery period was unusually short. The authors believe that calcitonin played a pivotal role in the healing process of the fractured odontoid bone. There is no question that the fusion in this patient could be unrelated to the medical therapy. This description of one patient, as well as the lack of a large randomized study, precludes any scientific conclusions. Nevertheless, the authors believe that the development of a successful fusion in this high-risk patient should be reported as an observation that merits confirmation and study. The authors also discuss the physiological effects of calcitonin and the research and clinical experience with this hormone in different conditions affecting bone.

Disc position and morphology in patients with nonreducing disc displacement treated by injection of sodium hyaluronate

Disc position and morphology were examined in 21 patients (22 joints) with nonreducing disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) at more than 12 months after undergoing injection of sodium hyaluronate into the superior joint space. The patients' clinical signs and symptoms improved during the follow-up period. In all patients, the disc was displaced anteriorly on mouth closure and did not reduce into the normal position during mouth opening at follow-up, whereas a normal disc position was found in all the controls. In the patients, the disc deviated from the normal biconcave configuration found in all of the controls on the follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Disc displacement apparently is persistent and continued disc deformity common in patients, although the clinical signs and symptoms improved.

[Botulinum toxin treatment of neurogenic dislocation of the temporomandibular joint]

Botulinum toxin leads to paresis of the skeletal muscle lasting 2-4 months via an inhibition of acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. Since 1995, botulinum toxin injections have been used in the treatment of recurrent dislocation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The chemical denervation of the external pterygoid muscle restricts the angle of mouth opening, thus helping to prevent dislocation. TMJ dislocations that occur as a result of increased tone in the protracted masticatory muscles were recently defined as neurogenic dislocations of the TMJ. We conducted a clinical study to investigate the efficacy of botulinum toxin injections into the external pterygoid muscle in five patients with recurrent neurogenic dislocations of the TMJ. In the 3 months prior to the first treatment, the patients had suffered a total of 19 dislocations. In the 3-month period following the initial treatment, only one woman experienced a dislocation. We performed the treatment a total of 25 times. Five dislocations occurred during the 6- to 36-month observation period. In the meantime, two patients remain recurrence-free 1 year after receiving treatment. All the patients had a restricted ability to open their mouths as a side effect of the weakening of the external pterygoid muscle that was completely reversible over the course of 3-4 months. All other side effects were equally well-tolerated by the patients and fully reversible after 3 weeks at the most. In the two patients who remain recurrence-free without any further treatment, the increased tone of the muscles serving the jaw normalised spontaneously over the course of the underlying neurological disease. Our results show that, in the treatment of recurrent neurogenic dislocations of the TMJ, botulinum toxin injections represent a therapeutic alternative that has few side effects.

Medical treatment of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation using botulinum toxin A

This paper describes a new technique for prophylactic treatment of recurrent mandibular dislocation using injection of botulinum toxin A (BtA) into the lateral pterygoid muscles. BtA temporarily weakens muscles by blocking acetylcholine release, and thus operates through a principle different from established treatments such as joint sclerosant therapy, eminectomy or Dautry's procedure. The patient suffered recurrent mandibular dislocations caused by tardive dystonia. We injected 75 mu BtA percutaneously into each lateral pterygoid muscle under electromyographic guidance. No further dislocations occurred over the subsequent 10 months, and follow-up continues. There were no immediate or delayed side effects. More experience is required before this becomes an established treatment. BtA is usually given in outpatients, and is less invasive or destructive than previous options. It may not be suitable if dislocation is due to lax ligaments or weak muscles. Operators must be aware that other BtA preparations require a different dose.

Treatment of recurrent dislocation of the temporomandibular joint with type A botulinum toxin

A case is reported of a 56-year-old woman who suffered from recurrent dislocations of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) secondary to an exacerbated tetraspastic syndrome of multiple sclerosis. Following chemical denervation of the masseter and pterygoid muscles with injections of type A botulinum toxin, no further dislocations occurred for periods of up to four months. The treatment has been repeated five times. Some of the indications and possible adverse reactions to this therapy are discussed and comparisons made with other, conventional methods for managing recurrent dislocation of the TMJ.

[Neurogenic temporomandibular joint dislocation. Definition and therapy with botulinum toxin]

Dislocation of the temporomandibular joint results from trauma, articulation disorders and changes in the equilibrium of the masticatory muscles. Previous classifications were mostly oriented on the interrelationships between the anatomical positions of the dislocated articular surfaces, like luxation, subluxation and discuss luxation. Etiologically, a distinction is made between traumatic and non-traumatic dislocation. Dislocation of the temporomandibular joint is described as a complication of a number of neurological diseases. We report on a patient who suffered recurrent dislocations of the temporomandibular joint as a complication of multiple sclerosis and whose luxations were successfully treated with botulinum toxin, thus warranting the introduction of the term "neurogenic dislocation of the temporomandibular joint".

Temporomandibular joint iontophoresis: a double-blind randomized clinical trial

This double-blind study evaluated the short-term effect of iontophoretic delivery of dexamethasone on the signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders in patients who had concurrent temporomandibular joint disc displacement without reduction and capsulitis. Twenty-seven patients with this clinical diagnosis were randomized to one of three groups: treatment group (dexamethasone sodium phosphate and lidocaine hydrochloride); control group (lidocaine hydrochloride); and placebo group (pH-buffered saline). Pretreatment and posttreatment data included items to calculate Helkimo's Anamnestic Dysfunction index, Helkimo's Clinical Dysfunction index, the Symptom Severity Index, and the Craniomandibular Index (CMI). The CMI is composed of the Dysfunction index (DI) and Muscle index. Analysis of variance showed no baseline differences on these measures between the three groups. Pretreatment and posttreatment values were compared with the paired t tests. Posttreatment, the treatment group had an increased mean maximal active mandibular opening of 6 mm (P = .02), increased mean lateral excursion of 1.2 mm to the noninvolved side (P = .05), and reduced mean DI scores of 0.51 to 0.39 (P = .01); no statistically significant decrease in pain symptoms was reported. Analysis of variance showed a significant difference in the DI scores (P = .04) between groups from pretreatment to posttreatment, with the treatment group showing the greatest improvement in the DI scores relative to the other two groups. No other questionnaire items, exam items, or resultant indexes showed changes in any of the groups at P < or = .05. These results suggest that iontophoretic delivery of dexamethasone and lidocaine was effective in improving mandibular function, but not in reducing pain, in temporomandibular disorders patients who had concurrent temporomandibular joint capsulitis and disc displacement without reduction.

[Bromelain in blunt injuries of the locomotor system. A study of observed applications in general practice]

METHOD

In an open case observation study involving patients with blunt injuries to the musculoskeletal system, the efficacy and tolerability of high-dose Bromelain POS, a plant-derived enzyme preparation, were investigated. The investigating physician was an orthopedic surgeon who, in addition to the usual therapeutic measures, treated 59 of his patients with the bromelaine preparation. The duration of the application was determined by the nature and severity of the lesion, and varied between one and three weeks. The test criteria were swelling, pain at rest and during movement, and tenderness. These parameters were evaluated on the day of the injury and on five subsequent dates.

RESULTS

Treatment with bromelaine resulted in a clear reduction in all four parameters tested. Both swelling and the symptoms of pain had improved appreciably at all evaluation time points as compared with baseline. The tolerability of the preparation was very good, and patient compliance was correspondingly high.

Evaluation of iontophoretically applied dexamethasone for painful pathologic temporomandibular joints

The effects of iontophoretically applied dexamethasone in a lidocaine vehicle were compared with those of saline placebo in 53 patients with one of three diagnoses of painful temporomandibular joint pathologic conditions: disk displacement with reduction, disk displacement without reduction, and osteoarthritis. Both dexamethasone and the saline placebo produced a significant reduction in pain scores from baseline levels after the first two of three treatments. There were no observed differences, however, in pain report or mandibular range of motion between the dexamethasone and placebo groups. A trend for pain relief was noted in the subgroup that received dexamethasone with a diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Results may reflect varying degrees of inflammation or central nervous system hyperexcitability, or both, in this heterogeneous study sample. Potential confounding variables were lack of knowledge of actual drug penetration, the effects of electric current transmitted by the iontophoresor, and pain reduction caused by cyclic fluctuations in symptoms. These data suggest that iontophoretically applied dexamethasone is no more effective than saline placebo in providing pain relief in patients with temporomandibular joint pain.

Use of sodium hyaluronate in treating temporomandibular joint disorders: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

This study assessed the efficacy of high-molecular-weight sodium hyaluronate as a treatment for certain intracapsular temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. One hundred twenty-one patients were studied at three test sites using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled experimental design. Patients were selected on the basis of 1) confirmed diagnosis of either degenerative joint disease (DJD), reducing displaced disc (DDR), or nonreducing displaced disc (DDN); 2) nonresponsiveness to nonsurgical therapies; and 3) severe dysfunction as established by the Helkimo indices (HI), visual analog scales (VASs), and physical measurements of joint movement and joint noise (arthrophonometry [APM]). Subjects received a unilateral upper joint space injection of either 1) 1% sodium hyaluronate in physiologic saline (MedChem Products, Woburn, MA) or 2) USP physiologic saline. Clinical evaluations were performed using HI, VAS, and APM at weekly intervals for the first month and then at monthly intervals up to 6 months postinjection. Statistical analyses for both categorical and continuous variables were performed for each diagnostic category at each examination interval. For DJD, no difference in outcome was seen between treatment groups. For DDN, significant between-group differences were seen through 1 month; however, beyond this time point, the number of DDN patients was insufficient to draw meaningful conclusions concerning efficacy. For DDR, statistically significant within-group and between-group improvement in all three measures (HI, VAS, APM) was seen for the hyaluronate group compared to the saline group throughout the 6-month test period. At the month-2 and month-3 examination intervals, twice as many patients treated with hyaluronate (90%) showed improvement compared to patients given placebo. Further, only 3% of patients with DDR who were treated with hyaluronate relapsed compared with 31% of patients with DDR given placebo.

[Diflunisal, a new analgesic, and oxyphenbutazone in the treatment of sprains and dislocations (author's transl)]

In a randomized double-blind study efficacy and tolerance of diflunisal, 375 mg twice daily, and oxyphenbutazone, 200 mg twice daily, were compared in 40 patients (aged 21 to 70 years, average 38 years), with moderate or severe complaints after spraining or dislocating ankle or wrist. The drugs were given for five days. Both proved to be highly efficacious, diflunisal slightly more so. Among the 20 patients in the diflunisal group one developed diarrhoea, another gastritis; in the oxyphenbutazone group one developed gastritis, another herpetiform pustules. There were no clinically significant abnormalities in routine biochemical tests.

[Habitual dislocation of the temporomandibular joint]

A case of recurrent dislocation of the left temporamandibular joint is reported. Different methods of treatment are reviewed. The present case was successfully treated with a combination of two methods: 1. Restriction of excessive condylar movement by means of continuous loop wiring and intermaxillary monofilament fishing line. 2. Intra-articular injections of autologous blood.