Temporomandibular Joint Arthrocentesis: A Prospective Study and Audit of 500 Joints of Central India

AIM AND OBJECTIVES: Aim of this study was to compare prospective effectiveness of arthrocentesis of temporomandibular joint by single- and double-needle technique in central India population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Out of 230 patients, 500 joints were included in the study and were randomly selected into two groups: single needle and double needle. Follow-up of patients were done as 1 week, 1 and 3 months. (The statistical analysis was done using SPSS [Statistical Package for Social Sciences] Version 15.0 Statistical Analysis Software). RESULTS: Both techniques were equally effective at reducing pain and increasing the maximal mouth opening. The single-needle technique was easier to perform and required a shorter operative time (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The results obtained indicate that single versus double arthrocentesis techniques were equally effective in reducing the pain and increasing the mouth opening and reducing the clicking sound. However, single-needle technique was easier to perform and required a shorter operative time.