Comparative Outcomes of Arthrocentesis with and without Stabilization Splints in Patients with Disc Displacement without Reduction

Authors : Tahsin Tepecik, Cumhur Korkmaz

Pages : 55-64

Doi:10.54617/adoklinikbilimler.1758024

View : 53 | Download : 177

Publication Date : 2026-01-27

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: This retrospective study aimed to compare the longterm effectiveness of arthrocentesis alone versus arthrocentesis combined with stabilization splint (SS) therapy in patients diagnosed with disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR). Materials and Methods: Medical records of 49 patients (57 TMJs) treated between 2018 and 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups: those who received arthrocentesis only (AO, n=26) and those who received arthrocentesis combined with a stabilization splint (A+SS, n=23). Pain intensity was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (pVAS), and maximum interincisal opening (MIO) was measured at baseline (T0), 1 month (T1), and 12 months (T2) post-treatment. Intragroup and intergroup comparisons were performed using appropriate statistical tests based on data distribution. Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in pVAS and MIO over time (p<0.001). At T1, the AO group demonstrated greater pain reduction (p<0.05), while the A+SS group showed greater MIO improvement (p<0.05). However, no significant differences were observed between groups at T2 for either parameter (p>0.05). Conclusion: Arthrocentesis alone and in combination with a stabilization splint provided similar long-term outcomes in patients with DDwoR. Although the combined therapy yielded early functional benefits, these advantages were not sustained at the 1-year follow-up. Arthrocentesis appears to be a practical and effective standalone treatment option for DDwoR.
Keywords : Artralji, Eklem hastalıkları, Oklüzal splintler, Temporomandibuler eklem

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