Evaluation of effect of arthrocentesis in the treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction

Introduction: Each of the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) with its masticatory system and associated components play a crucial role in mandibular function and distributing stresses created during different daily tasks. The structural abnormalities of TMJ, dysfunction of associated masticatory system along with derangement of intra articular disc are among the common temporomandibular disorders. Objective: To determine the mean change in maximal mouth opening with arthrocentesis in temporomandibular dysfunction. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study was carried out at Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Jinnah Hospital Lahore, Pakistan from December 2020 to June 2021. Using the non-probability purposive sampling, a total of 60 patients were enrolled in the study. The demographic details and informed consent were recorded. After the procedure, patients were followed up for one month and their maximum mouth opening was checked postoperatively, and the change was calculated. Results: Patients ranged between 15-55 years of age with mean age of 33.9±8.8 years. There were 25 males (41.7%) while females were 35 (58.3%). Stratification with regards to age, gender and duration of symptoms was carried out. Comparison of change in preoperative (18.28±4.84 mm) and postoperative maximal mouth opening (35.53±4.18 mm) was recorded (p<0.001). Mean change in maximal mouth opening was found to be 17.25±4.08 mm. Conclusion: Temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis has been proven and determined to be exceptionally effective and least invasive technique to achieve increased mean change in maximal mouth opening in temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD).