Comparison between two viscosupplementation protocols for temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis

A new study compared viscosupplement injections of Ostenil Mini into the temporomandibular joint. Patients received either 3 or 1 injection, and both groups showed improvements in pain and function. 

Here is the abstract:

N R Ferreira, et al.

ABSTRACT
Objective: This clinical study aimed to compare the efficacy of two differing protocols, using intra-articular injections of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) in patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis. The study also sought to evaluate the involvement of subchondral bone changes and psychosocial factors as predictors of HA treatment.

Methods: Twenty-one individuals were divided into two groups: (A) received three intra-articular HA injections, and (B) received one injection. Outcomes observed were pain intensity, functional limitation, maximum voluntary mouth opening, maximum assisted mouth opening, and treatment tolerability. Follow-ups were performed at weekly interval for 3 weeks, and at two months after the treatment started.

Results: No statistically significant inter group differences were observed. However, Group A showed significant improvement in all outcomes, whereas Group B showed significant improvement only in pain intensity and functional limitation.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the effectiveness of both protocols in terms of pain intensity and functional limitation caused by osteoarthritis of the TMJ.

Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08869634.2022.2141784