Arthrocentesis for Internal Derangement of Temporomandibular Joint: with and without Sodium Hyaluronate

Abstract

Introduction: Arthrocentesis is an effective, diagnostic and therapeutic modality for internal derangement of temporomandibular joint. Sodium Hyaluronate has been proposed as an alternative therapeutic agent with similar therapeutic effects. The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of Sodium Hyaluronate as an adjunct in treatment of patients with internal derangement of temporomandibular j oint.Methodology: A comparative study on 40 patients between the age group 20-64 years with internal derangement of temporomandibular joint was undertaken to evaluate the role of sodium hyaluronate as an adjunct in treatment.These patients were diagnosed clinically and radiographically with temporomandibular joint internal derangement who failed to respond to conservative treatments. They were divided in two groups randomly, each comprising of 20 patients. Group A comprised of patients who underwent arthrocentesis with Ringer Lactate and followed by injection with Sodium Hyaluronate. Group B were patients who underwent arthrocentesis with Ringer Lactate only. Results were evaluated on the parameters of pain, mouth opening, clicking, deviation, determination of range of lateral and protrusive movements and other complications. They were evaluated on pre -operative day, immediate post operative day and first, third and sixth month post operatively.Results: There was marked difference in all symptoms viz. of pain, mouth opening, clicking, deviation, determination of range of lateral and protrusive movements in group A as compared to group B with group A showing better response. Conclusion: Sodium Hyaluronate injection is thepreferred treatment for patients suffering with temporomandibular joint internal derangement who were refractory to corroborative methods.