The safety and efficacy of intra-articular platelet rich plasma injections in comparison to intra-articular steroid injections in treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders

Abstract

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are steadily increasing. Intra-articular injections of medications have been proposed for pain relief, improvement in function, such as and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and steroid. PRP is a minimally invasive method which is rich in growth factors that are necessary for tissue regeneration Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma and triamcinolone intraarticular injections for the management of TMJ disorders. Methods: 40 patients (12 male, 28 female) with (TMDs) divided into two groups: In Group I: intraarticular injection of PRP was given while in Group II intraarticular injections of triamcinolone was performed. The results were assessed through the procedure using clinical assessment of pain, mouth opening and joint sounds. Results: improvement of joint pain and mouth opening were seen in group I and II. There was significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) in improvement of pain intensity and mandibular function in group I than group II. There was improvement in joint sounds in both groups I and I (24%, 36% respectively) than the preoperative level (44%, 50% respectively) but statistically not significant. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the intraarticular injection of PRP and triamcinolone can improve the pain of joint, increase maximal interincisal opening but less effective in treating the joint sounds (clicking, crepitus). The outcomes of pain relief and inc