Temporomandibular joint surgery for internal derangement

Exercise therapy in postoperative patients with temporomandibular joint internal derangement: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Postoperative patients with temporomandibular joint internal derangement (ID) often have problems such as limited mouth opening and pain. Exercise therapy can be advantageous for improving the recovery of patients following surgery. However, there is continuing discussion on the precise aspects of the exercise program, including the optimal timing, length, intensity, and use of assistive equipment. Hence, this study aimed to incorporate pre-existing exercise treatment regimens and investigate their impact.

METHODS

Publications that detailed the clinical treatment of patients with temporomandibular joint ID who received postoperative exercise therapy interventions were included. Nine databases were searched until October 1st, 2023. The JBI critical appraisal tools were used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies.

RESULTS

Five studies were finally included for subsequent analysis; two were randomised controlled studies, and three were quasi-experimental. Exercises suitable for such patients encompass vertical, transverse, and horizontal stretching, among which vertical stretch can be divided into active and passive movements. The start time ranged from the first to the fifth week after surgery, with a duration of 1-6 months. Although the data in the studies could not be integrated and further analysed, preliminary results showed that maximum mouth opening and pain in patients improved significantly. The therapeutic effect of combining three exercise methods was best and was related to patient compliance.

CONCLUSION

Exercise therapy positively affects postoperative rehabilitation in patients with temporomandibular joint ID. It is proposed that targeted, comprehensive studies be conducted to provide a basis for designing more sophisticated exercise therapy regimens and further confirm its curative effect.

Progress in the Study of Temporomandibular Joint Lavage in Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

With the continuous development and progress of medicine, there are many methods for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders, among which temporomandibular joint lavage is also constantly developed. In the past century, through the efforts of some scholars and clinical summary, the understanding of this disease has been deepened and broadened. At present, through continuous exploration of the treatment methods, the lavage is relatively mature, and has achieved good clinical results. In this paper, the application of temporomandibular joint lavage in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders, its treatment methods, treatment mechanism, the auxiliary of other drugs, indications, complications and so on were discussed.

Assessment of the severity of temporomandibular disorders in females: Validity and reliability of the Fonseca anamnestic index

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Fonseca anamnestic index (FAI) over time in Turkish females.

METHODS

Four hundred-fourteen patients who visited the otorhinolaryngology clinic were initially included in the study between January 1, 2018 and January 1, 2019. The Turkish version of the FAI is a self-report instrument that was completed by all of the patients after a brief explanation from the clinician. Cronbach's alpha was calculated using data from the first questionnaire.

RESULTS

The results of the first assessment showed 243 patients had no TMD (58.7%), 40 had mild TMD (9.7%), 87 had moderate TMD (21%), and 44 had severe TMD (10.6%). At the second assessment, the respective values were 243 (58.7%), 37 (8.9%), 98 (23.7%), and 36 (8.7%). The internal consistency of the first test was high.

CONCLUSION

The FAI can be used to collect a large amount of data easily, at minimal cost.

Clinical Evaluation of Intra-Articular Injection of Chondroitin Sulfate and Sodium Hyaluronate in the Management of Degenerative Osteoarthritis of Temporomandibular Joint

AIM: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of intra-articular injection of chondroitin sulfate and sodium hyaluronate in cases of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) degenerative osteoarthritis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty patients ASA I of both sexes, who were selected from outpatient clinic of Oral Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry – Suez Canal University, complaining of painful TMJ, presence of unilateral or bilateral TMJ pain, impairment of jaw movements, and joint sounds. Clinical examination was performed to all patients and pre-operative measurements of visual analog scale (VAS) for morning pain, pain with movement and spontaneous pain, maximum mouth opening, and presence or absence of clicking. Patients were randomly divided into two groups; (a) Study group consisted of 15 patients, they had intra-articular injection of chondroitin sulfate and sodium hyaluronate once weekly for 3 weeks and (b) control group consisted of 15 patients, they had intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate once weekly for 3 weeks. Post-operative measurements of VAS for previous pain types, maximum mouth opening, and clicking were obtained at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-injection. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant reduction of all types of pain in the study group compared to the control group at all time intervals (p ≤ 0.05), for maximum mouth opening, there was a significant improvement in mouth opening in the study group for all time intervals (p ≤ 0.05), but for the clicking, there was not statistically significant difference between the study and control groups after 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. The difference between groups was barely statistically significant (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Intra-articular injection of a combination of chondroitin sulfate and sodium hyaluronate is an effective tool in reducing pain, clicking, limited mouth opening, and other symptoms associated with degenerative TMJ diseases.

Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy in advanced stages of internal derangement: a retrospective cohort study on the influence of age

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the outcomes of patients with advanced internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint who underwent operative arthroscopy, according to age stratified into two groups: <45 years and ≥45 years. The study included a series of 194 patients. Outcome variables were pain intensity and mandibular mobility. Additionally, the difference in arthroscopic findings in these age groups was studied. The data analysis included the paired t-test, χ² test, and two-way analysis of variance, with a P-value <0.05 indicating statistical significance. A significant reduction in pain and an improvement in maximum inter-incisal opening (MIO) was observed in both groups starting at 1 month of follow-up (P < 0.01). However, the results for MIO were worse in the ≥45 years group (P=0.036) at 12- and 18-months follow-up. Regarding arthroscopic findings, the study showed a higher prevalence of severe chondromalacia in the ≥45 years group (P = 0.031) and disc displacement without reduction in the <45 years group (P = 0.020). Analysis of variance showed a greater pain reduction if no obliteration of the articular space was observed (P = 0.039). In young and older patients, operative arthroscopy can be useful for short-term treatment in advanced stages of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint.

Invasive surgical procedures for the management of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint: a systematic review and meta-analysis regarding the effects on pain and jaw mobility

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review compared minimally and invasive surgical procedures to manage arthrogenous temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The review included clinical trials assessing surgical procedures of arthrogenous temporomandibular disorder (TMD) management by carrying out comparisons within the same surgical procedure (pre- and post-treatment) as well as between different surgical procedures. Meta-analyses were conducted only for similar comparison reporting the same outcome measures, visual analog scale (VAS) values to evaluate pain and maximum incisal opening (MIO) values.

RESULTS

Of the 1,015 studies identified by the search strategy, 26 were selected for full-text reading, and 19 were included in the review. Of these, 16 studies were included in the meta-analysis and 3 in the qualitative analysis. The VAS scores showed significantly lower values after discectomies (p < 0.001) and discoplasties (p < 0.001) in the within-group comparison. Moreover, significantly lower VAS scores and higher MIO values were observed after discectomy compared to arthroscopy, eminectomy, and discoplasty (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The findings of this systematic review suggest that although significantly lower VAS scores and higher MIO values were observed after discectomy, the currently available scientific evidence is unclear, and the use of invasive surgical procedures should be implemented as an efficient first-line treatment option for arthrogenous TMD management.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

VAS and MIO outcomes could be insufficient to describe the success or failure of open surgical procedures like discectomy and discoplasty.

Functional, physical and psychosocial impact of degenerative temporomandibular joint disease

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the functional, physical and psychosocial impacts of TMJ degenerative joint disease (DJD). The bearing of TMJ osteoarthrosis/osteoarthritis and early/late TMJ DJD on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) were also compared.

METHODS

Participants were enrolled from a TMD/oro-facial pain centre. Those diagnosed with intra-articular conditions based on the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD) were subjected to CBCT assessment and categorised into four discrete groups: NN-no TMJ DJD and no arthralgia; NA-no TMJ DJD with arthralgia; TO-TMJ osteoarthrosis; and TR-TMJ osteoarthritis. The TO/TR groups were subdivided into early/late TMJ osteoarthrosis (EO/LO) and osteoarthritis (ER/LR). OHRQoL was examined using the OHIP-TMD, and data were appraised with the Kruskal-Wallis/Mann-Whitney U tests (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

The study participant (n = 358) had a mean age of 31.85 ± 12.39 years (85.6% women). Frequencies of the TMD groups were as follows: NN-23.2%; NA-27.1%; TO-19.0%; and TR-30.7%. Participants with TR/NA had significantly worse OHRQoL than those with TO/NN. Additionally, participants with ER/LR reported significantly poorer OHRQoL than their counterparts with EO/LO. For all TMD groups and TMJ DJD subgroups, the psychological discomfort domain was generally the most impaired. Differences in global OHIP scores were significant between participants with and without arthralgia (i.e., NA-NN, ER-EO and LR-LO).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of TMJ pain appeared to impair OHRQoL more than the severity of TMJ DJD. As psychological domains were most impacted, psychosocial care should be incorporated when managing patients with painful TMJ DJD.

An additional lysis procedure during arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint

BACKGROUND

Arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is an easy, highly efficient, minimally invasive procedure for treating temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs). However, in some cases of mouth opening limitation (MOL), routine arthrocentesis is ineffective due to severe fibrotic adhesion in the superior joint space of the TMJ. In this condition, mechanical lysis of the adhesions might be needed to resolve the MOL, as well as other symptoms, such as chronic pain. Currently, this can be achieved by arthroscopic surgery or open TMJ surgery. The objective of this study was to introduce and evaluate our trial of the adhesion lysis procedure during arthrocentesis of the TMJ using normal 18-gauge needles.

RESULTS

In this study, 40 patients with MOL due to disc derangement underwent conventional arthrocentesis at first and then physical detachment was conducted using the same needle. The change in maximum mouth opening (MMO) and the pain at the TMJ were recorded before, during, and after treatment according to our protocol. The mean increase in MMO after conventional arthrocentesis was 6.6 ± 4.2mm. The mean increase in MMO after the detachment procedure with the same needle was 4.2 ± 2.0 mm. The MMO in ten patients was significantly increased after the detachment procedure than after arthrocentesis alone. In all cases, the pain intensity in the TMJ significantly decreased over time, whereas the MMO increased over time. No adverse effect was observed in all joints during our observation periods.

CONCLUSION

We confirmed that our simple lysis procedure with the same needle of the arthrocentesis of the TMJ could not only improve the MMO more than after a conventional arthrocentesis but also resolve severe adhesion of the joint space that was ineffective by conventional arthrocentesis. Although this additional lysis procedure is simple, it might reduce the number of cases of more invasive procedures such as arthroscopic surgery or open TMJ surgery.

Evaluation of Auditory Changes in Patients Undergoing Temporomandibular Joint Discectomy

PURPOSE

Discectomy is 1 of the preferred TMJ surgical procedure for the treatment of internal derangements when conservative and minimally invasive treatments have failed. The purpose of the current study is to investigate whether a TMJ discectomy operation influences auditory function and clinical variables.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study was composed of patients who underwent a TMJ discectomy operation between 2016 and 2020. Auditory function was evaluated with pure tone audiometry, tympanometry, and acoustic reflex tests at preoperatively (T₀), postoperative first week (T₁), first month (T₂), and third month (T₃). Clinical parameters including maximum mouth opening (MMO) and TMJ pain were also evaluated at T₀, T₁, T₂, T₃, and sixth month (T₄).

RESULTS

The study consisted of 17 patients (5 males, 12 females) with a mean age of 42.65. A significant reduction in VAS pain scores and MMO values compared to baseline values was achieved in all follow up periods (P^T0-T1= .001; P^T0-T2/T3/T4 < .001). In pure tone audiometry, a significant increase in T₁-T₀ comparisons at 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, 6000 Hz, 8000 Hz frequencies, and pure tone average (P = .008; P = .005; P = .012; P = .002; P = .001) was observed. In T₃-T₀ comparisons, a statistically significant decrease was observed in pure tone thresholds at 125 Hz and 8000 Hz frequencies (P = .008; P = .01). There was no statistically significant difference in middle ear pressure and compliance values at T₁, T₂, and T₃ compared to T₀ (P ˃ .05). Type C tympanogram was seen in 3 patients at T₁ and in 1 patient at T₂. Acoustic reflex tests were positive in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Although mild changes occurred in auditory tests in the early postoperative period, TMJ discectomy procedure has no permanent effect on auditory function.

Is Arthroscopic Disk Repositioning Equally Efficacious to Open Disk Repositioning? A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

Temporomandibular joint disc repositioning surgery is 1 of the treatment modalities used for treating anterior disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint. The procedure can be arthroscopic disc repositioning or open disc repositioning. This systematic review measured and compared the efficacy of arthroscopic and open disc repositioning procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors conducted a systematic review without meta-analysis by performing a literature search electronically and manually covering arthroscopic and open disc repositioning studies published up to July 2020 in Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Surgical outcomes such as changes in maximal incisal opening (MIO) and pain scores, temporomandibular joint noises, diet consistency, malocclusion, and postoperative complications were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 28 studies were included in the review and split into those assessing open disc repositioning (n = 13) and those assessing arthroscopic disc repositioning (n = 15). The average age of the study patients in the included studies was 31.5 ± 6.8 years, and women represented 83.3% of the study population. Both arthroscopic and open disc repositioning showed to be efficacious in reducing pain and increasing MIO. Due to heterogeneity in study designs and data reporting between the studies, no quantitative analysis was performed, and the groups were not directly compared.

CONCLUSIONS

Both arthroscopic and open disc repositioning led to significant improvements in clinical outcomes based on pain scores and MIO. This study highlights the need for comparative studies of the 2 techniques with well-documented case selection including standardized diagnosis based on Wilkes stages and rigorous outcomes assessment including patient reported outcomes.

Effect of simultaneous application of arthrocentesis and occlusal splint versus splint in management of non-reducing TMJ disc displacement

Background/Purpose

This study aimed to compare the effect of four approaches in the treatment of TMJ disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR).

Materials and methods

Thirty-two patients (40 joints) with mean age 28.025 ± 7.18 (23 female patients and nine male patients) were assigned randomly into four groups (10 joints in each group). Group I, patients were treated by centric splint. Group II, patients were treated by distraction splint. Group III, patients were treated by arthrocentesis and centric splint, while group IV patients were treated by arthrocentesis and distraction splint. The groups were compared in terms of joint function (mouth opening), joint pain through joint palpation, and use of visual analog scale (VAS). These records were taken preoperatively, two weeks, one month, three, and six months postoperatively. Also, the presence of disc recapture was evaluated in all patients on MRI at the end of the treatment period.

Results

Significant improvements in all parameters were recorded in all groups. At two weeks postoperatively, there was a significant improvement in all parameters in group III and group IV than group I and group II, while there was no statistical difference between group III and group IV. Regarding mouth opening and joint palpation, there was a significant improvement in group III than group I and group II. Also, there was a significant improvement in group IV than group II at the subsequent follow-up periods. Regarding VAS, at one and three months postoperatively, there was a significant improvement in group III than other groups.

Conclusion

However, both types of splints provide better results without a statistical difference; the simultaneous application of arthrocentesis and occlusal splint decreases pain and improving the function effectively and more rapidly.

Efficacy of arthrocentesis and lavage for treatment of post-traumatic arthritis in temporomandibular joints

Objectives

Joint injuries frequently lead to progressive joint degeneration that causes articular disc derangement, joint inflammation, and osteoarthritis. Such arthropathies that arise after trauma are defined as post-traumatic arthritis (PTA). Although PTA is well recognized in knee and elbow joints, PTA in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) has not been clearly defined. Interestingly, patients experiencing head and neck trauma without direct jaw fracture have displayed TMJ disease symptoms; however, definitive diagnosis and treatment options are not available. This study will analyze clinical aspects of PTA in TMJ and their treatment outcomes after joint arthrocentesis and lavage.

Materials and Methods

Twenty patients with history of trauma to the head and neck especially without jaw fracture were retrospectively studied. Those patients developed TMJ disease symptoms and were diagnosed by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. To decrease TMJ discomfort, arthrocentesis and lavage with or without conservative therapy were applied, and efficacy was evaluated by amount of mouth opening and pain scale. Statistical differences between pre- and post-treatment values were evaluated by Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results

Patient age varied widely between 20 and 80 years, and causes of trauma were diverse. Duration of disease onset was measured as 508 posttrauma days, and 85% of the patients sought clinic visit within 2 years after trauma. In addition, 85% of the patients showed TMJ disc derangement without reduction, and osteoarthritis was accompanied at the traumatized side or at both sides in 40% of the patients. After arthrocentesis or lavage, maximal mouth opening was significantly increased (28-44 mm on average, P<0.001) and pain scale was dramatically decreased (7.8-3.5 of 10, P<0.001); however, concomitant conservative therapy showed no difference in treatment outcome.

Conclusion

The results of this study clarify the disease identity of PTA in TMJ and suggest early diagnosis and treatment options to manage PTA in TMJ.

Temporomandibular joint disc plication with MITEK mini anchors: surgical outcome of 65 consecutive joint cases using a minimally invasive approach

Background

The purpose of this study is to introduce our modified disc plication technique using MITEK mini anchors and to evaluate the clinical outcome for patients with internal derangement (ID) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Patients and methods

We evaluated 65 joints in 46 patients, comprised 32 women and 14 men, who first visited the Asan Medical Center from December 2012 to December 2016. The age of the patients ranged from 14 to 79 years, with a mean age of 36.6 years. The patients presented with joint problems including pain, joint noise, and mouth opening limitation (MOL). Patients who met our inclusion criteria underwent unilateral or bilateral disc repositioning surgery with our minimally invasive disc plication technique using MITEK mini anchors and No. 2-0 Ethibond® braided polyester sutures. The variables taken into account in this study were the range of maximum mouth opening (MMO), painful symptoms (evaluated with the visual analog scale, VAS), and the type of noise (click, popping, crepitus) in the TMJ.

Results

Preoperative examination revealed painful symptoms in 50.7% (n = 35) of the operated joints (n = 69) and the presence of clicks in 56.5% (n = 39). Postoperative examination revealed that 4.3% (n = 3) of the operated joints had painful symptoms with lower intensity than that in the preoperative condition. Additionally, 17.4% (n = 12) had residual noise in the TMJ, among which two were clicking and the other 10 had mild crepitus. The intensity of the postoperative residual noise was significantly decreased in all cases compared to that in the preoperative condition. Among patients with MOL below 38 mm (n = 18), the mean MMO was 31.4 mm preoperatively and 44.2 mm at 6 months postoperatively, with a mean increase of 13.8 mm. A barely visible scar at the operation site was noted during the postoperative observation period, with no significant complications such as facial palsy or permanent occlusal disharmony.

Conclusion

Subjective symptoms in all patients improved following the surgery. TMJ disc plication using MITEK mini anchors with our minimally invasive approach may be a feasible and effective surgical option for treating TMJ ID patients who are not responsive to conservative treatment.

Is Eminectomy Effective in the Management of Chronic Closed Lock?

Purpose

This study assesses the effectiveness of eminectomy in the management of chronic closed lock, refractory to conservative medical management in the largest multi-centred study of its kind in the UK, with a cohort of 167 patients. Temporomandibular mandibular joint disorder affects 30% of adults in the UK. Chronic closed lock is a well-documented sub-type.

Method

A retrospective study of patients with refractory closed lock was carried out, where conservative management had been implemented for a minimum of 6 months. Refractory patients were offered eminectomy at three separate centres over a period from 1995 to 2011. The primary variable was the inter-incisal distance (IID). Other variables included pain, clicking and nerve damage pre- and post-operatively.

Results

There were 167 patients across all three centres, 81% of which were female. The mean IID was 23 mm pre-operatively and 37 mm post-operatively. There was a statistically significant association with the primary predictor variable, yielding a p value of < 0.05. Clicking resolved completely post-operatively in 84 patients (58%). Pain subjectively improved in 56% cases.

Conclusion

Eminectomy is a safe and effective surgical procedure and has a role to play as a second-line surgical option in the management of closed lock after more conservative medical options have failed.

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.

A comparison of the effects of Methylprednisolone Acetate, Sodium Hyaluronate and Tenoxicam in the treatment of non-reducing disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint

Background

This clinical study aimed to radiologically and clinically compare the effect of intra-articular injection of methylprednisolone, sodium hyaluronate or tenoxicam following arthrocentesis with that of arthrocentesis alone in patients with non-reducing disc displacement.

Material and Methods

A total of 44 patients radiographically diagnosed with non-reducing disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) were randomly divided into four treatment groups, as follows: Group 1, arthrocentesis alone; Group 2, arthrocentesis plus methylprednisolone acetate; Group 3, arthrocentesis plus sodium hyaluronate; Group 4, arthrocentesis plus tenoxicam. Maximum mouth opening (MMO), lateral movement, pain severity and tenderness of TMJ and muscles of mastication on palpation were measured before treatment and at 1 week and 1, 3 and 6 months after treatment. Disc position, presence or absence of disc reduction, level of effusion, joint movement and joint space were also evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before treatment and 6 months after treatment.

Results

No significant differences in treatment success were found among the four groups. MRI findings did not vary significantly among the groups, but pre- and post-operative MRI findings varied significantly within all four groups (p<0.001).

Conclusions

According to the data from this study, it may be concluded that either arthrocentesis alone or arthrocentesis with methylprednisolone acetate or sodium hyaluronate or tenoxicam intra-articular injections are similarly effective and promising methods in the treatment of TMJ with non-reducing disc displacement.

Key words:Non-reduction disc displacement, arthrocentesis, methylprednisolone, sodium hyaluronate, tenoxicam.

Scaffold-Based Temporomandibular Joint Tissue Regeneration in Experimental Animal Models: A Systematic Review

Reconstruction of degenerated temporomandibular joint (TMJ) structures remains a clinical challenge. Tissue engineering (TE) is a promising alternative to current treatment options, where the TMJ is either left without functional components, or replaced with autogenous, allogeneic, or synthetic grafts. The objective of this systematic review was to answer the focused question: in experimental animal models, does the implantation of biomaterial scaffolds loaded with cells and/or growth factors (GFs) enhance regeneration of the discal or osteochondral TMJ tissues, compared with scaffolds alone, without cells, or GFs? Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines, electronic databases were searched for relevant controlled preclinical in vivo studies. Thirty studies reporting TMJ TE strategies in both small (rodents, rabbits; n = 25) and large animals (dogs, sheep, goats; n = 5) reporting histological and/or radiographic outcomes were included. Twelve studies reported ectopic (subcutaneous) implantation models in rodents, whereas 18 studies reported orthotopic, surgically induced defect models in large animals. On average, studies presented with an unclear-to-high risk of bias. In most studies, mesenchymal stem cells or chondrocytes were used in combination with either natural or synthetic polymer scaffolds, aiming for either TMJ disc or condyle regeneration. In summary, the overall preclinical evidence (ectopic [n = 6] and orthotopic TMJ models [n = 6]) indicate that addition of chondrogenic and/or osteogenic cells to biomaterial scaffolds enhances the potential for TMJ tissue regeneration. Standardization of animal models and quantitative outcome evaluations (biomechanical, biochemical, histomorphometric, and radiographic) in future studies, would allow more reliable comparisons and increase the validity of the results.

Comparison of the efficiency of irrigation of single and double-needle techniques of temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis: A cadaver study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of the double- and single-needle arthrocentesis techniques in removing methylene blue from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) space.

METHODS

This study was performed in 20 TMJs from 10 fresh cadavers. A total of 1 ml of 10 μM methylene blue solution was injected into the upper joint spaces, just prior to irrigation. Ten arthrocentesis procedures were carried out using the double-needle technique, and the remaining 10 were completed using the single-needle technique. The photo-absorbance values of methylene blue solution injected into and removed from the joint space were measured at a 665 nm wavelength. Statistical analysis was performed using Shapiro-Wilks test and t-test.

RESULTS

The t-test analysis showed no statistically significant difference between the two methods in the removal of methylene blue.

CONCLUSION

According to the results of the present study, the single-needle technique may be a good alternative with the advantages of easier application in cases where it is not possible to perform the double-needle technique.

Internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint: A review of the anatomy, diagnosis, and management

Internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint are conditions in which the articular disc has become displaced from its original position the condylar head. Relevant anatomic structures and their functional relationships are briefly discussed. The displacement of the disc can result in numerous presentations, with the most common being disc displacement with reduction (with or without intermittent locking), and disc displacement without reduction (with or without limited opening). These are described in this article according to the standardized Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders, as well as the less common posterior disc displacement. Appropriate management usually ranges from patient education and monitoring to splints, physical therapy, and medications. In rare and select cases, surgery may be necessary. However, in for the majority of internal derangements, the prognosis is good, particularly with conservative care.

Cone beam computed tomography-based models versus multislice spiral computed tomography-based models for assessing condylar morphology

OBJECTIVE

To quantitatively compare condylar morphology using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and multislice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) virtual three-dimensional surface models.

STUDY DESIGN

The sample consisted of secondary data analyses of CBCT and MSCT scans obtained for clinical purposes from 74 patients treated with condylar resection and prosthetic joint replacement. Three-dimensional surface models of 146 condyles were constructed from each scan modality. Across-subject models were approximated and voxel-based registration was performed between homologous CBCT and MSCT images, making it possible to create average CBCT- and MSCT-based condylar models. SPHARM-PDM software provided matching points on each corresponding model. ShapeAnalysisMANCOVA software assessed statistically significant differences between observers and imaging modalities. One-sample t-tests evaluated the null hypothesis that the mean differences between each CBCT- and MSCT-based model were not clinically significant (<.5 mm). Tests were conducted at a significance level of P < .05.

RESULTS

ShapeAnalysisMANCOVA showed no statistically significant difference between the average CBCT- and MSCT-based models (P > .68). During pairwise comparison, the mean difference observed was .406 mm (SD, .173). One sample t-test showed that mean differences between each set of paired CBCT- and MSCT-based models were not clinically significant (P = .411).

CONCLUSION

Three-dimensional surface models constructed from CBCT images are comparable to those derived from MSCT scans and may be considered reliable tools for assessing condylar morphology.

Imaging Approach to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Internal derangement is the most common temporomandibular joint disorder. Degenerative osteoarthritis and trauma are next in frequency. Less common pathology includes rheumatoid arthritis, synovial chondromatosis, calcium pyrophosphate dehydrate deposition disease, pigmented villonodular synovitis, tumors, infection, and osteonecrosis. We provide a systematic approach to facilitate interpretation based on major anatomic structures: disc-attachments, joint space, condyle, and lateral pterygoid muscle. Relevant graphic anatomy and state of the art imaging are discussed in correlation with current clinical and therapeutic highlights of pathologic entities affecting the joint.

Osteomyelitis of the Temporomandibular Joint Following Canal Wall Down Mastoidectomy

Osteomyelitis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a rare disease that is characterized by osteitis of the mandibular condyle or glenoid fossa. Although this condition is usually associated with trauma, dental disease, or extension of a local infection, it may also occur as a complication of otologic infection. However, osteomyelitis of the TMJ as a complication of otologic surgery has not yet been reported. I present the case of a 54-year-old woman who developed a polyp on the superior portion of the tympanic membrane 9 weeks after canal wall down mastoidectomy. This is an extremely rare case of a patient with osteomyelitis of the TMJ as a complication of otologic surgery.

Arthroscopic discopexy is effective in managing temporomandibular joint internal derangement in patients with Wilkes stage II and III

PURPOSE

Disc repositioning for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) internal derangement (ID) is a well-established surgical technique with variable success. The purpose of the present study was to assess the outcomes after arthroscopic disc repositioning (discopexy) for TMJ ID.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a prospective, cohort, single-institutional clinical study. The study included patients with TMJ ID in whom diagnostic arthroscopy had failed. These patients were presented and treated at Miami Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Baptist Hospital (Miami FL). The predictive variable was the Wilkes diagnostic categories, presented in 2 groups: II and III versus IV and V. The primary outcome variable was the absence of joint pain at 12 months postoperatively. The secondary outcome variables included joint function, maximum interincisal opening, medication use, joint loading sign, and muscle pain. The patients were followed for 1 year postoperatively. The statistical analyses included paired and independent sample Student's t test, χ(2) test, and logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 32 subjects (42 joints), with a mean age of 31 years, were included in the present study; 28 (87.5%) were women. Of the 42 joints, 71.4% were classified as Wilkes stage II and III. A successful outcome was seen in 69% of the studied subjects and in 86.7% of the Wilkes II and III group versus 25% of the Wilkes IV and V group (P = .001).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study have shown that TMJ arthroscopic discopexy is an effective and predictable treatment of patients with TMJ ID in whom primary TMJ arthroscopy failed. Our results have also shown that patients with Wilkes II or III TMD will have the most successful outcome.

Autologous adipose stem cells and polylactide discs in the replacement of the rabbit temporomandibular joint disc

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc lacks functional replacement after discectomy. We investigated tissue-engineered bilayer polylactide (PLA) discs and autologous adipose stem cells (ASCs) as a potential replacement for the TMJ disc. These ASC discs were pre-cultured either in control or in differentiation medium, including transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 for one week. Prior to implantation, expression of fibrocartilaginous genes was measured by qRT-PCR. The control and differentiated ASC discs were implanted, respectively, in the right and left TMJs of rabbits for six (n = 5) and 12 months (n = 5). Thereafter, the excised TMJ areas were examined with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and histology. No signs of infection, inflammation or foreign body reactions were detected at histology, whereas chronic arthrosis and considerable condylar hypertrophy were observed in all operated joints at CBCT. The left condyle treated with the differentiated ASC discs appeared consistently smoother and more sclerotic than the right condyle. The ASC disc replacement resulted in dislocation and morphological changes in the rabbit TMJ. The ASC discs pre-treated with TGF-β1 enhanced the condylar integrity. While adverse tissue reactions were not shown, the authors suggest that with improved attachment and design, the PLA disc and biomaterial itself would hold potential for TMJ disc replacement.

Apoptosis in temporomandibular joint disc with internal derangement involves mitochondrial-dependent pathways. An in vivo study

OBJECTIVE

Two main apoptosis pathways have been identified: an extrinsic (or death receptor-mediated) and an intrinsic (or mitochondrial) pathway. Apoptotic cell death through the extrinsic pathway has just been described in temporomandibular joint disc (TMJ) with internal derangement (ID); in contrast, no data are available on the involvement of the intrinsic pathway in this tissue. The aim of this work was to investigate whether the intrinsic pathway participates in apoptosis activation in patients with TMJ ID and anterior disc displacement without reduction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Apoptosis activation was studied in TMJ discs from 15 patients with ID and in six unaffected discs using bcl-2-associated X protein (bax), B-cell lymphoma 2 (bcl-2), cytochrome c and caspase 9 immunohistochemistry. A correlation was sought between immunohistochemical findings and degree of disc damage.

RESULTS

None of the pathological TMJ disc sections were immunopositive for bcl-2; negative bcl-2 immunostaining was detected in affected discs; cytochrome c and caspase 9 immunoreactivity was greater in pathological compared to unaffected discs; the difference was significant and correlated with histopathological degeneration score data (Spearman's rho = 0.617).

CONCLUSION

The present findings suggest that in-human TMJ with ID and anterior disc displacement without reduction of cell apoptosis occurs, at least partly, via the mitochondrial pathway, which contributes to the subsequent disc degeneration. These data may have clinical implications and could help devise improved treatment strategies.

Efficacy of Temporomandibular Joint Arthrocentesis on Mouth Opening and Pain in the Treatment of Internal Derangement of TMJ-A Clinical Study

PURPOSE

This study was designed to investigate the efficacy of arthrocentesis on mouth opening and pain in the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) internal derangement patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifteen males and 25 females aged between 18 and 37 years comprised the study material in the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery at Govt Dental College Srinagar (India). The patients' complaints were limited mouth opening and TMJ pain. Arthrocentesis was performed under aseptic conditions. Clinical evaluation of the patients was done before the procedure, and 1 week and 4 months post-operatively. Intensity of TMJ pain and maximal mouth opening were recorded at each follow-up visit.

RESULTS

There was significant improvement in mouth opening and reduction in pain scores in the post-operative period.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthrocentesis is a simple and safe procedure for patients of internal derangement with closed lock for improving mouth opening and decreasing pain.

Endaural access to remove the projectile from a firearm

BACKGROUND

Surgical approaches to temporomandibular region have been the subject of numerous controversies in the literature. Pre-auricular approaches have been used with the observance of high success rate, and during surgery history, various modifications of this approach were conducted in order to reduce irreversible sequelae. Thus, given the relevance of the study, this article proposes to alert the professionals that carry out these surgical approaches in relation to the anatomical structures involved and to describe and emphasise the benefits of endaural approach.

CASE REPORT

A Caucasian male patient, victim of a firearm injury, sustained a wound on the right pre-auricular region, and at the time of assessment, he complained of pain, mouth opening difficulty and dysphagia. On physical examination, there was oedema and ecchymosis in the right periorbital region. In the radiological examination, a foreign body compatible with a firearm projectile was observed in the right pre-auricular region, being in accordance with the information collected. The endaural incision and divulsion by plans was then made until the projectile.

DISCUSSION

For proper exposure of the region, several studies were designed to evaluate the patterns of branching and anastomosis of the facial nerve. As for the best cosmetic result with the different pre-auricular approaches, the endaural approach was described as an approach that offers great cosmetic results because the incision design guides the surgeon in the wound closure and causes a decrease in the tension of flap, unlike that observed by some authors.

Open bite as a complication of total temporomandibular joint replacement: a case report

Temporomandibular joint total joint replacement, like any surgery, can be associated with either intraoperative or postoperative complications. Intraoperative complications may include injuries to local anatomical structures (e.g., blood vessels, nerves, middle ear, and external auditory canal), or poor positioning and/or adaptation of the prosthesis components to the host bone. Postoperative complications may include infection, hematoma, heterotopic bone formation, implant failure, pain, salivary fistula, foreign body or allergic reactions, and malocclusion. This article reports the occurrence of a postoperative open-bite malocclusion complication, the result of maxillary artery hemorrhage.

Apoptosis in displaced temporomandibular joint disc with and without reduction: an immunohistochemical study

Internal derangement (ID) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is due to an abnormal relationship of the articular disc to the mandibular condyle, glenoid fossa and articular eminence. The two most common types of internal derangement are anterior disc displacement with (ADDwR) and without reduction (ADDwoR). Disc displacement is associated with degenerative tissue changes. The histological features of discs from patients with TMJ ID reflect a general remodelling caused by abnormal loading. A correlation has been demonstrated between TMJ ID and apoptosis. Few investigations have addressed the role of apoptosis or caspase activity in TMJ ID. The apoptosis activation process was studied in different areas of discs from 18 patients with ID (both ADDwR and ADDwoR) and four cadavers (controls), with emphasis on the expression of caspase 3, whose activation makes the death process irreversible. The results showed a greater proportion of caspase 3-positive cells in ADDwR and ADDwoR than in control discs. Immunopositivity also varied between disc areas; in particular, in ADDwoR sections labelled cells were significantly more numerous (P < 0.01) in the posterior disc attachment than in the anterior and intermediate bands. In addition, a significantly greater proportion of labelled cells was seen in the anterior (+) and intermediate (++) band of ADDwR compared with ADDwoR discs both bands (P < 0.05). These data suggest the importance of programmed cell death in the progression of TMJ ID.

TRAIL, DR5 and caspase 3-dependent apoptosis in vessels of diseased human temporomandibular joint disc. An immunohistochemical study

To evaluate the apoptosis involvement in the angiogenesis as a self-limiting process in patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) degenerated disc vessels, we assessed, by immunohistochemistry, the detection of TRAIL, its death receptor DR5 and caspase 3. TRAIL, its death receptor DR5 and caspase 3 expression were studied by immunohistochemistry in 15 TMJ discs displaced without reduction and in 4 unaffected discs. These apoptosis molecules were detected in the intima and media layers of newly formed vessels affected discs. In conclusion, vessels apoptosis activation in TMJ disc with ID could be regarded as a self-limiting process that try to leads to vessel regression; in this way an inhibition of angiogenic vessels may prove a key strategy in limiting pathological angiogenesis, by cutting off blood supply to tumors, or by reducing harmful inflammation.

Mandible protrusion and decrease of TMJ sounds: an electrovibratographic examination

This study quantified by, electrovibratography, the amount of mandible protrusion required to decrease significantly temporomandibular joint (TMJ) vibratory energy as an aid in the diagnosis of the recapture of anteriorly displaced disk. Eighteen patients diagnosed as having anterior disk displacement with reduction and TMJ clicking were submitted to electrovibratographic examination at the first appointment and treated with a stabilizing appliance and anterior positioning appliance with 1 to 5 mm protrusion. Vibratory energy was checked in each of these positions. Baseline data were used as control. At the first appointment, the patients had vibrations with more elevated intensities at the middle and late phases of the mouth opening cycle. At only one clinical step, mandible protrusion was obtained with the anterior repositioning appliance, ranging from 1 to 5 mm protusion. At each new position, a new electrovibratographic exam was made. After the 5-mm mandibular projection, only 2 patients presented vibration, with means between 0.6 and 2.8 Hz. Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Tukey's test (alpha=0.05). The outcomes of this study indicate that 3 mm is the minimum amount of mandible protrusion to significantly decrease the TMJ vibratory energy and to recapture the displaced articular disk.

The methodological quality of systematic reviews comparing temporomandibular joint disorder surgical and non-surgical treatment

BACKGROUND

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD) are multifactor, complex clinical problems affecting approximately 60-70% of the general population, with considerable controversy about the most effective treatment. For example, reports claim success rates of 70% and 83% for non-surgical and surgical treatment, whereas other reports claim success rates of 40% to 70% for self-improvement without treatment. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to (1) identify systematic reviews comparing temporomandibular joint disorder surgical and non-surgical treatment, (2) evaluate their methodological quality, and (3) evaluate the evidence grade within the systematic reviews.

METHODS

A search strategy was developed and implemented for MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, LILACS, and Brazilian Dentistry Bibliography databases. Inclusion criteria were: systematic reviews (+/- meta-analysis) comparing surgical and non-surgical TMJD treatment, published in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, or German between the years 1966 and 2007(up to July). Exclusion criteria were: in vitro or animal studies; narrative reviews or editorials or editorial letters; and articles published in other languages. Two investigators independently selected and evaluated systematic reviews. Three different instruments (AMSTAR, OQAQ and CASP) were used to evaluate methodological quality, and the results averaged. The GRADE instrument was used to evaluate the evidence grade within the reviews.

RESULTS

The search strategy identified 211 reports; of which 2 were systematic reviews meeting inclusion criteria. The first review met 23.5 +/- 6.0% and the second met 77.5 +/- 12.8% of the methodological quality criteria (mean +/- sd). In these systematic reviews between 9 and 15% of the trials were graded as high quality, and 2 and 8% of the total number of patients were involved in these studies.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that in spite of the widespread impact of TMJD, and the multitude of potential interventions, clinicians have expended sparse attention to systematically implementing clinical trial methodology that would improve validity and reliability of outcome measures. With some 20 years of knowledge of evidence-based healthcare, the meager attention to these issues begins to raise ethical issues about TMJD trial conduct and clinical care.