Viscosupplementation as a treatment of internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint: retrospective study

Abstract

Background and objectives: There are many non invasive treatment modalities for internal temporomandibular joint derangements described in the literature, including counseling, drug therapy, physical therapy and interocclusal devices. However, some patients become refractory to conservative treatments and procedures such as arthrocentesis, arthroscopy and temporomandibular joint surgery are indicated. Viscosupplementation is a less invasive, low cost approach with good short and long term results. This study aimed at discussing viscosupplementation to treat internal temporomandibular joint alterations with results after four months of follow-up. Methods: Participated in the study 55 patients with reducing and non reducing disc displacement and osteoarthritis refractory to conservative treatments who were submitted to sodium hyaluronate infiltrations. There has been statistically significant pain improvement for all groups. Results: Patients with non reducing disc displacement and osteoarthritis had significant mouth opening improvement. Such results were constant along the four months of follow-up. Conclusion: Viscosupplementation with sodium hyaluronate may be considered a good alternative to functionally reestablish temporomandibular joint in the short term in patients with internal alterations refractory to conservative treatments. (AU)