Abstract
Aim of the study: This study aims to assess efficacy of autologous blood injection (ABI) versus eminectomy for treating recurrent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation.
Patients and Methods: 20 patients with chronic recurrent dislocation were randomly divided into two groups (10 patients each). Group 1 received autologous blood injection (ABI) to pericapsular tissue (PT) and superior joint space (SJS). While Group 2 performed eminectomy. Clinical data included maximal incisal opening (MIO), joint sounds, pain, episodes of subluxation per week at 1 week, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Digital Radiographic imaging was collected at 6 and 12 months.
Results: Clinical data analysis showed significant improvements in all parameters comprising episodes of subluxation per week, joint sounds, pain, and maximal incisal opening, initially in both groups. Long term follow-up showed beginning of osteoarthritic changes in group 2 detected by digital radiographic imaging.
Conclusion: Both techniques had favorable results concerning TMJ subluxation. However, the injection group had superior results, was more conservative as a technique, and had no side effects.