Effectiveness of ultrasound guidance in arthrocentesis with PRP for TMJ internal derangements: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated whether ultrasound (US) guidance improves the effectiveness of arthrocentesis combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in treating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) internal derangements, based on MRI and clinical outcomes. METHODS: In this prospective randomized study (October 2023-March 2024), 42 patients were equally divided into US-guided and conventional groups. All underwent Type II single-puncture arthrocentesis. Clinical assessments included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and maximum mouth opening (MMO). Procedure times were recorded separately. MRI evaluated disc-condyle alignment, joint effusion, capsular width, and bone marrow edema. Follow-ups were conducted preoperatively and at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months, with MRI at 3 months. . RESULTS: < .05). MRI findings were similar between groups. CONCLUSION: US guidance enabled faster early recovery, but both methods showed comparable clinical and radiological outcomes at 3 months.