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To compare the clinical effectiveness of conventional double-puncture vs single-puncture type 2 arthrocentesis for management of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc displacement without reduction (DDWOR) after 3 years of follow-up.A total of 26 patients with DDWOR were randomly and blindly allocated into two treatment groups (n = 13 each): group 1 = conventional double-puncture arthrocentesis; group 2 = single-puncture type 2 arthrocentesis. Data on gender, side of painful joint complaint, age (years), duration of joint pain (months), maximum interincisal distance (MID, mm), and pain intensity (self-reported with a 0-10 visual analog scale [VAS]) were collected. VAS scores and MID were measured before (baseline) and 3 years after (final) the arthrocentesis.Twenty-three patients completed the study (group 1, n = 11; group 2, n = 12). Both techniques resulted in significantly reduced VAS scores and increased MID (P = .001) after the 3 years of follow-up; however, there were no statistically significant differences between techniques (P0.05).The two arthrocentesis methods tested were both effective in reducing VAS scores and increasing MID in patients with DDWOR.

To compare clinical and imaging results of two needles arthrocentesis (TNA) versus double-needle cannula arthrocentesis (DNCA) in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disc displacement (DD).Twenty patients with DD were randomly divided into two groups: TNA and DNCA. Clinical data (pain scores; maximal interincisal distance [MID], and protrusion and laterality movements) were evaluated before and 24 months after the arthrocentesis. Disc and condyle position and joint effusion (JE) were evaluated by magnetic resonance exams.Both groups presented improvement in the MID, including pain reduction, modifications in disc and condyle positions, and reduction of the presence of JE, without difference between groups (Both TNA and DNCA are efficient in promoting improvement in the MID: reduction in pain, modifications in disc and condyle positions, and, in part, may account for less JE, without difference between techniques.

OBJECTIVES: Arthrocentesis is the simplest surgical intervention for the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It can be performed on an outpatient basis at a low cost and with low morbidity. The objective is to release the articular disc by disrupting the adhesion formed between its surfaces and the mandibular fossa through hydraulic pressure generated by irrigation of the upper compartment of the TMJ. Viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid during or after arthrocentesis improves clinical outcomes, increases mouth opening, and reduces pain levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of arthrocentesis plus hyaluronic acid viscosupplementation through clinical examination and preoperative magnetic resonance imaging in patients with unilateral disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR). METHODS: This analytical retrospective cross-sectional study clinically and radiologically evaluated 72 patients of both sexes with unilateral DDwoR. The following data were collected: sex, pain, age, duration of pain, maximum mouth opening, and patient pain perception on a visual analog scale. TMJ arthrocentesis was performed only once for each of the indicated joints. Data were collected before arthrocentesis (baseline) and at 7, 14, 30, 60, 90, and 180 days after the procedure (final evaluation). RESULTS: Between the baseline and final evaluation, there was a significant reduction in pain (p=0.001) and restoration of articular function. In addition, there was a significant increase in maximum mouth opening (p=0.001). CONCLUSION: Patients with DDwoR undergoing arthrocentesis combined with hyaluronic acid injection showed significant improvement in the perceived pain and maximum mouth opening in the mid-term follow-up periods.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular disorder is considered to be a set of clinical manifestations that affect the masticatory muscles, the temporomandibular joint and adjacent structures, whose signs and symptoms can negatively impact the quality of life of their patients. A population group in which the prevalence of temporomandibular disorder has increased in recent years is that of athletes. The aim of the present study was to conduct an integrative literature review to verify the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders in athletes, as well as factors related to their predisposition. CONTENTS: The searches were performed in the Medline, LILACS and Scielo databases, using the descriptors “temporomandibular joint”, “athletic injuries” and “temporomandibular disease”. Inclusion criteria were researches derived from primary data regardless of design, which was the target audience of athletes and that addressed the presence of temporomandibular joint or muscle dysfunction. Ten studies were selected and included in the review. The results obtained with the analysis of these articles showed that athletes are subject to temporomandibular disorders not only due to injuries suffered during competitions, but also due to factors associated with stress and the use of specific devices for sports practice. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of temporomandibular disorders is common among athletes, but can be avoided with the use of preventive measures and conservative treatments. Dental monitoring is essential for these professionals to perform well, preventing the occurrence of temporomandibular disorders or treating them when they occur. RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A disfunção temporomandibular é considerada um conjunto de alterações que acometem os músculos mastigatórios, articulação temporomandibular e estruturas adjacentes, os quais podem impactar negativamente na qualidade de vida dos seus portadores. Um grupo populacional no qual a prevalência de disfunção temporomandibular tem aumentado nos últimos anos é o de atletas. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi realizar uma revisão integrativa da literatura a fim de verificar a prevalência das disfunções temporomandibulares em atletas, bem como os fatores relacionados a sua predisposição. CONTEÚDO: As buscas foram realizadas nas bases de dados Medline, LILACS e Scielo, utilizando os descritores “temporomandibular joint”, “athletic injuries” e “temporomandibular disease”. Os critérios de inclusão foram pesquisas oriundas de dados primários com qualquer delineamento; tendo como público-alvo os atletas e que abordassem a presença de disfunção temporomandibular articular ou muscular. Foram selecionados 10 estudos que foram incluídos nesta revisão. Os resultados obtidos com as análises dos artigos evidenciaram que atletas estão sujeitos às disfunções temporomandibulares não somente pelas lesões sofridas durante as competições, mas também por fatores associados ao estresse e ao uso de dispositivos específicos da prática desportiva. CONCLUSÃO: A ocorrência de disfunções temporomandibulares é comum entre atletas, mas elas podem ser evitadas com a utilização de medidas preventivas e tratamentos conservadores. O acompanhamento odontológico é fundamental para prevenir ou tratar a disfunção temporomandibular.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular disorders are the problems involving the masticatory muscles and/or the temporomandibular joint and, among them, the bone and joint disc degenerative processes stand out. However, an effective treatment for these cases has not yet been identified in the literature. Thus, the primary objective of this study was to evaluate the reparative potential of mesenchymal stem cells on degenerative changes in structures associated with the temporomandibular joint in humans and animal models. CONTENTS: This narrative review included intervention trials in humans and animals that presented as an outcome variable the repair of joint discs and/or temporomandibular joint. The following databases were used: Pubmed, LILACS, Scielo and Google Scholar. Titles and abstracts were analyzed for the pre-selection of articles potentially eligible for inclusion in this review. The information collected from each article was included in a specific spreadsheet for this purpose containing the year of publication, article title, author’s name, study location, type of study, methodology, results, and conclusions. Two human studies and four animal studies were selected to compose the narrative review. In all studies presented, the presence of stem cells was able to improve the clinical, histological, and morphological parameters of the temporomandibular joint. CONCLUSION: The use of stem cells seems to be effective in treating degenerative changes in temporomandibular joint associated structures in both animal and human models. However, due to the small number of studies and their heterogeneity, the results presented should be evaluated sparingly. RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: As desordens temporomandibulares constituem-se em um termo coletivo de problemas que envolvem os músculos mastigatórios e/ou a articulação temporomandibular. Dentre esses, destacam-se os processos degenerativos ósseos e do disco articular, contudo, ainda não foi identificado na literatura um tratamento eficaz para esses casos. Dessa forma, o objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar o potencial reparador das células-tronco mesenquimais sobre as alterações degenerativas das estruturas associadas à articulação temporomandibular em humanos e em modelos animais. CONTEÚDO: Foram incluídos ensaios de intervenção em humanos e em animais que apresentassem como variável desfecho o reparo dos discos articulares e/ou da articulação temporomandibular. Foram realizadas buscas nas seguintes bases de dados: Pubmed, LILACS, Scielo e Google Acadêmico. Os títulos e resumos foram analisados para a pré-seleção dos artigos potencialmente elegíveis para sua inclusão. As informações coletadas de cada artigo foram incluídas em planilha específica para essa finalidade contendo o ano de publicação, título do artigo, nome do autor, local do estudo, tipo de estudo, metodologia, resultado e conclusões. Foram selecionados 2 estudos em humanos e 4 estudos em animais para compor este estudo. Em todas essas pesquisas apresentadas, a presença de células-tronco foi capaz de melhorar parâmetros clínicos, histológicos e morfológicos da articulação temporomandibular. CONCLUSÃO: O uso de células-tronco parece ser eficaz no tratamento das alterações degenerativas das estruturas associadas à articulação temporomandibular. Todavia, devido ao reduzido número de estudos e sua heterogeneidade, os resultados apresentados devem ser avaliados com parcimônia.

Objective To compare different temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthrocentesis techniques with needles arranged in two different patterns. Materials and methods Two groups of TMJ arthrocentesis techniques were studied: group 1, with the classic positioning of the needles; and group 2, with a parallel positioning of the needles. Clinical data (patient’s pain perception and mandibular movements) were evaluated before and 18 months after arthrocentesis. The duration of the procedure was also recorded. Results Forty patients were equally and randomly divided into the two groups. The paired Student’s t-test showed that both arthrocentesis procedures reduced the intensity of patient pain perception and improved mandibular movements (maximal interincisal distance, protrusion, and laterality) with statistically significant differences between the evaluations before and after the TMJ arthrocentesis (p Conclusion Both arthrocentesis procedures reduced the intensity of patient pain perception and improved mandibular movements. The two-needle TMJ arthrocentesis with parallel positioning of the second needle was performed more quickly, and should be chosen whenever possible.

Objective To perform a systematic review of the viscosupplementation effectiveness with hyaluronic acid (HA) in the articular Temporomandibular Dysfunctions (TMDs) clinical management. Method Electronic searches were performed in the following databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, LILACS, BBO, SIGLE (System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe), ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBec). Only randomized clinical trials that evaluated the intra-articular administration of HA or its derivatives in osteoarthritis and/or anterior displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc were included. The primary outcomes evaluated were patients' self-report of pain and/or discomfort in the TMJ. Each study was assessed for the risk of bias, using the Cochrane collaboration's risk of bias tool. Results A total of 640 studies were obtained in the electronic search. After the application of the eligibility criteria, manual search, and duplicate removal, 21 articles were included. Five articles classified their volunteers with internal derangements of the TMJ, in 4 articles the treatment was directed to participants with disc displacement with reduction and the other articles evaluated HA therapy in osteoarthritis. The protocols presented heterogeneity, varying in the form of application, associated or not with arthrocentesis, number of applications, molecular weight, dose and concentration. Nine studies presented high risk of bias. Conclusion Due to the heterogeneity and methodological inconsistencies of the studies evaluated, it was not possible to establish the efficacy of HA in articular TMDs.

To evaluate joint effusion and positioning of the articular disc through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and after two different arthrocentesis techniques.Twenty-six patients with dislocation of the articular disc without reduction (ADDwoR) were included and randomly divided into two groups: single needle arthrocentesis with distention of the upper compartment of the TMJ (A1) and conventional arthrocentesis with 2 needles (A2).A statistically significant difference was observed between the different effusion categories (Conventional arthrocentesis was able to change the effusion variable, whereas the single needle arthrocentesis was not. Both techniques were responsible for altering the position of the mandibular head or the disc-head complex, projecting them to a more anterior position related to the increase in the final maximum interincisal distance.

Viscosupplementation is a minimally invasive technique that replaces synovial fluid by intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HA). Although effective in some joints, there is not conclusive evidence regarding temporomandibular disorders. This case series described the efficacy of a viscosupplementation protocol in intra-articular temporomandibular disorders. Ten patients with a diagnosis of disc displacement and/or osteoarthritis by Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) were submitted to four monthly injections of low or medium molecular weight HA. Pain, mandibular function, image analysis by tomography and magnetic resonance, and quality of life were assessed at baseline and follow-ups (1 and 6 months). Pain, jaw range-of-motion, mandibular function, and quality of life improved at follow-up evaluations. Osteoarthritis changes decreased, and 20% of patients improved mandibular head excursion after treatment. Resolution of effusion and improvement in disc morphology were observed for most patients. This viscosupplementation protocol reduced pain and symptoms associated with internal derangement of temporomandibular joint, improved quality of life, and showed benefits from both low and medium molecular weight HA in alternate cycles.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation among age, gender and the number of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) findings.The records from 228 patients with TMD were analyzed for the presence of these findings: morphological changes, disc displacement with reduction (DDWR) and without reduction (DDWOR), bone edema, effusion, and avascular necrosis. Statistical analyses were conducted using multinomial regression with a 5% significance level.DDWR was the most frequent finding. Group 1 was composed of 94 patients (41.22%), Group 2, of 67 patients (29.38%), and Group 3, of 67 patients (29.38%). Men were significantly less likely to belong to Group 3 than women (Women were shown to be more susceptible to developing a higher number of concomitant conditions than men, and the number of findings tended to increase with age.

Objective: To correlate the clinical aspects of symptomatic patients with chronic articular disc displacement with reduction with alterations in the articular disc (AD) morphology and sagit...

BAKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Arthralgia is a common complaint among patients with temporomandibular osteodegeneration, however, for the accurate diagnosis of osteodegeneration, it is suggested the adoption of imaging tests associated with standardized clinical diagnosis protocols. The objective of this study was to evaluate patients with degenerative changes in the temporomandibular joint previously visualized by cone beam computed tomography, relating these changes with the clinical diagnoses and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders, in order to conclude which of the degenerative changes develop more painful symptomatology. METHODS: A cross-sectional observational descriptive study. Thirty-eight patients who had previously done the cone beam computed tomography exam were evaluated. Subjects were grouped according to clinical diagnosis of temporomandibular joint changes using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders questionnaire. The presence of pain was considered during lateral palpation; intra-articular palpation; excursive movements; and active mouth opening. RESULTS: Among the purely clinical diagnoses, only 10.5% were conclusive, classifying patients as suffering from osteoarthritis/osteoarthrosis. Painful joint symptoms were found in all groups, with no statistically significant difference. Similarly, the presence of degenerative disorders, including flattening, osteophytes, sclerosis, and erosion were found in similar proportions in all diagnosis groups. CONCLUSION: 89.5% of the degenerative changes were clinically underdiagnosed. There was a positive association between the presence of symptoms and the number of correct clinical diagnoses of osteoarthritis/osteoarthrosis obtained with the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders.

Objective: To evaluate the presence of joint effusion and morphology of the articular disc (AD) viewed in the sagittal plane in patients with disc displacement with reduction (DDWR) and to correlat...

This research aims to examine the presence of osteophyte in patients with arthrogenic temporomandibular disorders through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); to investigate the influence of sex and clinical symptoms in its prevalence; and the position of the osteophytes in the condyle. The study was based on 100 MRI and on reports of patients, which corresponded to the evaluation of 200 joints. Patients of both sexes were aged from 18 to 82 years (average = 49.48) and were subjected to the aforementioned examination from January 2006 to March 2009. The assessment considered the type of disc displacement, the presence of effusion, bone marrow edema, condyle changes, joint noise and pain. The MRI machine used was the GE Signa HDX (General Electric, Milwaukee, WI), with T1 and T2-weighted, 1.5 T magnetic field, sagittal oblique (mouth closed, mouth open) and coronal (mouth closed) imaging, with spherical surface coil and an asymmetric matrix. All images were interpreted by an experienced radiologist. A total of 28% (n = 56) of the temporomandibular joints showed osteophytes on the anterior surface of the mandible. No relationship was found between sex and osteophytes. The authors found a statistically significant difference between osteophytes and disc displacement without reduction (P < 0.001). The presence of osteophytes suggested a possible cause and effect relationship between osteoarthritis and disc displacement without reduction; the osteophyte was always located in the anterior surface of condyle, regardless of the sex variable; no significant difference was found between osteophytes and the main complaints of the patient.

Disc displacement with reduction (DDWR) is one of the most common intra-articular disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Factors related to the etiology, progression and treatment of such condition is still a subject of discussion. This literature review aimed to address etiology, development, related factors, diagnosis, natural course, and treatment of DDWR. A non-systematic search was conducted within PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, Medline, LILACS and Science Direct using the Medical Subjective Headings (MeSH) terms “temporomandibular disorders”, “temporomandibular joint”, “disc displacement” and “disc displacement with reduction”. No time restriction was applied. Literature reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analysis and clinical trials were included. DDWR is usually asymptomatic and requires no treatment, since the TMJ structures adapt very well and painlessly to different disc positions. Yet, long-term studies have shown the favorable progression of this condition, with no pain and/or jaw locking occurring in most of the patients.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Arthrocentesis is an effective treatment to reduce or eliminate pain, increase maximal interincisal distance, and to eliminate joint effusion in patients with disc displacement without reduction. This study aims to expose and to discuss a new technique proposal of temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis applied in the treatment of a single case of disc displacement without reduction. CASE REPORT: Female patient, 18-year-old patient sought treatment due to joint pain and mouth opening limitation. The maximal interincisal distance was 30.28mm. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of disc displacement without reduction with signs of joint effusion in the right temporomandibular joint. Temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis was performed under selective sensory nerve block of the auriculotemporal, the masseteric and posterior deep temporal nerves. Two needles were inserted in the upper compartment of the temporomandibular joint. In the second needle, a transparent catheter was connected into a vacuum pump. Clinically, after the arthrocentesis, the maximal interincisal distance increased to 46.25mm, and the patient referred no more pain. After six months, a magnetic resonance imaging was performed to observe the results, and there were no more signs of joint effusion. CONCLUSION: Temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis was an effective treatment for this patient with disc displacement without reduction. The aspect of this technique that is particularly relevant for clinical practice was the connection of a transparent catheter to a vacuum pump. In fact, it allowed the visualization of the solution fluidity, as well as guides the flow of the solution used for joint washing, optimizing the irrigation. However, new studies are necessary to compare different protocols of irrigation with and without the associated use of a vacuum pump.

Aim: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of internal derangements (ID) of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in patients with cleft-lip/palate. Also, to evaluate the correlation of diagnosis between Research Diagnostic Criteria for temporomandibular disorders (RDC/TMD) clinical examination and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: Twenty patients with cleft-lip/palate, were clinically evaluated by RDC/TMD and by MRI. The ID of TMJ evaluate were disc displacement with reduction (DDWR) and disc displacement without reduction (DDWOR). Results: The present study showed that 9 (45%) of the patients were diagnosed with ID of TMJ (8 [40%] patients with DDWR and 1 [5%] with DDWOR) and 11 (55%) present no disorders, by RDC/TMD. MRI examination revealed that 15 (75%) of the patients had ID of TMJ (13 [65%] patients with DDWR and 2 [10%] with DDWOR) and 5 (25%) present no disorders. The Kappa index between the clinical and imaging diagnosis was 0.01. Conclusion: In the present study, DDWR was diagnosed in 40-65% by the RDC/TMD and MRI, respectively; DDWOR was diagnosed in 5-10% by the RDC/TMD and MRI, respectively. The diagnostic correlation between the clinical examination based on RDC and on MRI was weak.

Objective: This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of arthrocentesis when varying the irrigation volume in patients with disc displacement without reduction (DDWOR). Methods: Thirty DDW...

Objective The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate the impact of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in patients with articular disc displacement with reduction (DDWR) and to identify which clinical variables are associated with the concomitant presence of DDWR and MTrPs. Material and Methods 130 patients were selected that sought treatment due to joint pain, with ages ≥18 years, of both genders, with DDWR confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The sample was divided into two groups: Group 1, patients with DDWR and MTrPs (N=101); and Group 2, patients with DDWR and no MTrPs (N=29). Information on gender, age, pain duration, pain scores, and maximal interincisal distance (MID) were collected. The logistic regression model was used and the odds ratios (OR) was calculated (p

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: As desordens inflamatórias da articulação temporomandibular apresentam alta prevalência na população. O conhecimento sobre os mediadores inflamatórios, tais como histamina, serotonina, cininas, eicosanoides, fator de ativação plaquetária, óxido nítrico, fator de necrose tumoral e interleucinas, pode contribuir para melhor entendimento dessas desordens. O presente trabalho objetivou revisar a literatura a respeito dos principais mediadores inflamatórios envolvidos nas artralgias temporomandibulares. CONTEÚDO: Foi realizada uma busca nas bases de dados LILACS, Pubmed/Medline, Scielo e Science direct, cruzandose os seguintes descritores em língua inglesa e portuguesa: inflammation, temporomandibular joint, inflammatory mediators, inflamação, articulação temporomandibular e mediadores inflamatórios. Foram incluídos artigos de revisão de literatura, revisão sistemática, meta-análise e estudos clínicos randomizados, bem como livros com temática compatível, publicados no período de setembro de 1990 a junho de 2017. Foram excluídos casos clínicos, estudos abertos «open-label» e estudos em modelos animais. CONCLUSÃO: O conhecimento do processo inflamatório, com os diferentes mediadores e mecanismos, pode contribuir para um melhor entendimento do mesmo, possibilitando a seleção da melhor terapêutica para ser empregada clinicamente nos casos de artralgias temporomandibulares. BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Inflammatory disorders of the temporomandibular joint present a high prevalence in the population. The knowledge about inflammatory mediators, such as histamine, serotonin, kinins, eicosanoids, platelet-activating factor, nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor and interleukins, may contribute to a better understanding of these disorders. The objective of this study was to review the literature on the major inflammatory mediators involved in temporomandibular arthralgia. CONTENTS: A search was made in the LILACS, Pubmed/ Medline, Scielo and Science direct databases, crossing the following descriptors in the English and Portuguese language: inflammation, temporomandibular joint, inflammatory mediators, inflammation, temporomandibular joint and inflammatory mediators. Articles of literature review, systematic review, meta- analysis and randomized clinical trials, as well as books with compatible themes, published between September 1990 and June 2017 were included. Clinical reports, open label studies, animal model studies, were excluded. CONCLUSION: The knowledge of the inflammatory process, with the different mediators and mechanisms, can contribute to a better understanding, allowing the selection of the best therapy to be used clinically in cases of arthrogenic temporomandibular joint disorders.

The objective of this study was to compare single-needle arthrocentesis with distension of the upper compartment of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with the conventional two-needle arthrocentesis. Twenty-six patients with articular disc displacement without reduction (DDWOR) were included in the study and assigned to two groups (n=13): single-needle arthrocentesis with distension of the upper compartment of the TMJ (1N) and conventional two-needle arthrocentesis (2N). The maximum interincisal distance (MID) and TMJ pain as measured by the visual analog scale (VAS) were compared. MID and VAS data were obtained: before (T1), seven days after (T2), fifteen days after (T3), one month after (T4), three months after (T5), six months after (T6), nine months after (T7), and one year after the arthrocentesis procedures (T8). Considering each group individually, results of the VAS scores and MID measurements showed a significant difference between T1 and T2–T8 (p<0.001) in both groups. Between two groups, results show no significant differences (p>0.05). Both techniques tested were effective in reducing pain and increasing MID. Due to the advantages over the conventional two-needle arthrocentesis, single-needle arthrocentesis with distension of the upper compartment should be considered as the first treatment option for patients with painful hypomobilized TMJ of DDWOR.

Introduction: The temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) it’s a collective expression that encompasses clinical alterations in chewing muscles, temporomandibular joints (TMJ), and/or associated estructures. The viscosuplementation (VS) is a minimally invasive technique which consistis of intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate (SH) for the improvement of lubrification and joint biomechanics and elimination or decrease of pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate, through a series of cases, the efficacy of a viscosupplementation protocol with SH in different molecular weights, in the signs and syntptoms of joint TMJ and in patients’quality of life [1–3]. Materials and methods: this study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil (CAAE-24911314.3.0000.5149) and registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-6759yz). Is a case series that describes the efficacy of a viscosupplementation protocol in intra-articular temporomandibular disorders. Ten patients with a diagnosis of disc displacement and/or osteoarthritis according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) were submitted to four monthly injections of low or medium molecular weight HA. Pain, mandibular function, image analysis by tomography and magnetic resonance, and quality of life were assessed at baseline and follow-ups (1 and 6 months). Results: Pain, jaw range-of-motion, mandibular function, and quality of life improved at follow-up evaluations. Osteoarthritis changes decreased, and 20% of patients improved mandibular head excursion after treatment. Resolution of effusion and improvement in disc morphology were observed for most patients. This viscosupplementation protocol reduced pain and symptoms associated with internal derangement of temporomandibular joint, improved quality of life, and showed benefits from both low and medium molecular weight HA in alternate cycles. Discussion and conclusions: These results suggest the effectiveness of the VS protocol in the control and relief of the signs and symptoms of TMD, and the great therapeutic potential of this technique.

Introduction: Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory muscles, and/or associated structures. Signs and symptoms include pain, joint sounds and/or joint dysfunction [1,2]. The aim of this study is to report the clinical case of a patient with TMD, articular disc sounds, associated with arthralgia. who underwent arthrocentesis with biodynamic irrigation and subsequent viscosupplementation in order to reestablish ATM biomechanics and promote pain relief. Materials and methods: Detailed clinical evaluation and examination of magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an anterior displacement with the attachment of the TMJ disc to the posterior wall of the articular tubercle. This was accompanied by joint sound and severe pain (VAS =7), difficulty in chewing, as well as decreased interincisal distance (28.06 mm), which lingered for more than 5 years. Treatment consisted of arthrocentesis under local anesthesia without sedation, with two needles technique, using a total volume of 200 mL of saline solution followed by synovial fluid replacement with 10 mL of 0.5% 1200 kDa molecular weight sodium hyaluronate solution (Viscoseal®) under joint manipulation. After this procedure, 1 mL of 1% 1000-2000 kDa molecular weight sodium hyaluronate solution (Osteonil®) (viscosupplementation) was performed. Oral pharmacological control with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic was also included. Results: Immediate results to therapy consisted of a increased mouth opening with a interincisal distance of 45.09 mm, reduction in joint sound, and restoration of mandibular movements. Supervised home physiotherapy was established in order to maintain function and mouth opening. The exercises were performed for 20 seconds, 3 times a day. After two months, significant progress was observed with gain of 17.03 mm in the interincisal distance, absence of pain (VAS = 0) and great decrease in right articular sound. Discussion and conclusions: Specifically in this case, this minimally invasive approach has shown successful clinical outcomes for arthralgia and biomechanical control of the temporomandibular joint. However, in the future, a larger case-control study is necessary to ascertain its promising potentialities

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Dry needling is an interventionist, minimally invasive technique, used in the treatment of myofascial pain. The objective of this study was to describe the use of dry needling and to perform a critical literature analysis about the technical aspects of its use by qualified health care professionals. CONTENTS: A search in the literature was carried out for books in English, review articles, randomized controlled or quasi-randomized clinical trials, blind or double-blind and published case studies series in Portuguese or in English. The following databases were used: Cochrane, LILACS, and Pubmed. Articles published from September 1996 to January 2017 were selected according to the following keywords: dry needling versus myofascial pain syndrome versus temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome) versus trigger points versus musculoskeletal manipulations versus trapezius muscle, superficial back muscles versus masseter muscle versus secular muscle versus pterygoid muscles versus digastric muscle, neck muscles. Reports of clinical cases, “open-label” studies, studies with animal models and articles not related to DN were excluded. After the matching descriptors and the implementation of inclusion and exclusion criteria, we selected six articles. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis of myofascial pain can be a difficult task since it can simulate different masticatory system pain, from a toothache to a trigeminal neuropathic pain. This can be minimized with proper history taking, clinical examination involving muscle palpation, as well as the own experience and professional training. The deactivation of myofascial trigger points should be a priority in myofascial pain therapy since there is a significant improvement of local and referred pain when we use this approach. Despite the favorable results of studies about the use of dry needling in myofascial pain treatment related to temporomandibular joint dysfunction and the cervical region, the literature still lacks studies with a high level of evidence proving the effectiveness and efficacy of this technique. This is a minimally invasive, low cost, and safe therapy that provides local, segmental, extra segmental and placebo effects. Therefore, its use should be recommended by different health professionals in cases of myofascial pain. RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: O agulhamento seco é uma técnica intervencionista, minimamente invasiva, utilizada no tratamento da dor miofascial. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o emprego do agulhamento seco e realizar a análise crítica da literatura sobre os aspectos técnicos de sua utilização por profissionais capacitados da área da saúde. CONTEÚDO: Foi realizada uma busca na literatura por livros em inglês, artigos de revisão, estudos clínicos controlados randomizados ou quase-randomizados, encobertos, ou duplamente encobertos e estudos de séries de casos publicados em português ou inglês. Foram utilizadas as seguintes bases de dados: Cochrane, LILACS e Pubmed. Foram selecionados artigos publicados no período de setembro de 1996 a janeiro de 2017, recrutados após a utilização dos seguintes descritores: agulhamento seco versus síndromes da dor miofascial versus síndrome da disfunção da articulação temporomandibular versus pontos-gatilho versus manipulações musculoesqueléticas versus músculo trapézio (superficial back muscles) versus músculo masseter versus músculo temporal versus músculo pterigoideo versus músculo digástrico. Foram excluídos relatos de casos clínicos, estudos abertos “open-label”, estudos em modelos animais e artigos não relacionados ao agulhamento seco. Após o cruzamento dos descritores e aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram selecionados seis artigos. CONCLUSÃO: O diagnóstico da dor miofascial pode se apresentar como uma tarefa difícil, uma vez que ela pode simular diferentes algias do sistema mastigatório, desde uma odontalgia até uma dor neuropática trigeminal. Isso pode ser minimizado com uma adequada anamnese, exame clínico envolvendo palpação muscular, além da própria experiência e treinamento profissional. A desativação dos pontos-gatilho miofasciais deve ser prioridade na abordagem terapêutica da dor miofascial já que é observada melhora significativa da dor local e referida, quando essa é realizada. Apesar de resultados favoráveis em estudos sobre o agulhamento seco no tratamento da dor miofascial, relacionada à disfunção temporomandibular e a região cervical, ainda faltam na literatura pesquisas com elevado nível de evidência que comprovem a eficácia e a eficiência dessa técnica. Essa é uma terapia minimamente invasiva, de baixo custo, segura e apresenta efeitos locais, segmentares, extrassegmentares e placebo. Diante do exposto, pode-se recomendar seu emprego por diferentes profissionais da área da saúde nos casos da dor miofascial.

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A dor orofacial é aquela que é experimentada na cavidade bucal e na face, e que apresenta uma etiologia multifatorial, sendo um representante a disfunção da articulação temporomandibular. Dentre as várias formas de tratamento, tem-se a acupuntura e o agulhamento seco. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a efetividade dessas duas terapias nos casos de disfunção da articulação temporomandibular miogênica. CONTEÚDO: Foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico nas bases de dados LILACS, Medline, Scielo e Pubmed a partir do cruzamento dos seguintes descritores: “acupuncture” OR “electroacupunture” OR “dry needling” AND “orofacial pain syndrome” OR “orofacial pain” OR “temporomandibular dysfunction” OR “temporomandibular disorders”, disfunção temporomandibular ou pontos-gatilho miofasciais nos últimos 16 anos. Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos, revisões sistemáticas, meta-análises, estudos de caso, envolvendo seres humanos. Os idiomas selecionados foram o inglês e o português. Foram encontrados 21 artigos que, posteriormente, foram criteriosamente avaliados e tabelados. O presente trabalho pode identificar que tanto a acupuntura, como o agulhamento seco, foram significativamente importantes na resolução dos sinais e sintomas da disfunção da articulação temporomandibular de caráter miogênico, com adequada eficácia. CONCLUSÃO: Pode-se salientar que o agulhamento seco parece ser mais eficaz na resolução da dor local sobre o ponto-gatilho miofascial do que somente a utilização de pontos de acupuntura à distância. A acupuntura demonstrou influências positivas na qualidade de saúde geral e dor dos pacientes com disfunção da articulação temporomandibular miofascial. Dessa forma, a escolha da terapêutica a ser aplicada dependerá da avaliação do profissional sobre as condições clínicas do paciente e dos objetivos terapêuticos a serem atingidos. BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Orofacial pain is the pain felt in the oral cavity and the face, with a multifactorial etiology, being a representative of the temporomandibular dysfunction. Among the various possibilities for treatment are acupuncture and the dry needling. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of these two therapies in the cases of myogenic temporomandibular dysfunction. CONTENTS: A review of articles relating to the topic was conducted on the LILACS, Medline, Scielo and Pubmed database, cross-referencing the following descriptors: “acupuncture” OR “electroacupuncture” OR “dry needling” AND “orofacial pain syndrome” OR “orofacial pain” OR “temporomandibular dysfunction” OR “temporomandibular disorders”, myofascial temporomandibular dysfunction or trigger points in last the 16 years. Clinical trials, systematic reviews, metanalysis, case studies involving human beings were included. The selected languages were English and Portuguese. Twenty-one articles were found that were carefully evaluated and tabulated. The present study identified that both acupuncture and dry needling were significantly important in the resolution of the signs and symptoms of the myogenous temporomandibular dysfunction, with adequate effectiveness. CONCLUSION: It can be pointed out that dry needling seems to be more effective in the resolution of local pain on the myofascial trigger points than just using of acupuncture points at a distance. Acupuncture demonstrated positive influences in the general health quality and pain of patients with myofascial temporomandibular dysfunction. Therefore, the therapy of choice will depend on the professional’s assessment of the clinical conditions of the patient and the therapeutic goals to be achieved.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Gunshot wounds may have fatal results. Even when not causing major injuries to soft and hard tissues, there may be other severe problems. This study aimed at reporting the case of a projectile located in the left infratemporal fossa and at discussing treatment, risks and complications. CASE REPORT: Male patient, 18 years old, suffered a gunshot wound which has penetrated the face by the left zygomatic region, and was lodged in the homolateral infratemporal fossa. This has caused jaw function impairment and pain. Foreign body was surgically removed by preauricular access and patient was then submitted to physiotherapy. After treatment, temporomandibular joint function was reestablished and esthetic results were considered excellent without sequelae. CONCLUSION: Management of patients hit by projectiles is more complex when these are located in an area of difficult access and close to noble structures. Radiographic techniques obtained by means of different planes allow the accurate location of the object. There may be major deformity and functional incapacity, especially if the facial nerve is affected during bullet trauma or during surgery. Although there were no nervous injuries, functional impairment of orofacial structures was decisive to indicate the surgical procedure. Surgical removal of the projectile from the infratemporal fossa, combined with postoperative physiotherapy, has shown to be an effective treatment.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of degenerative bone changes of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in individuals suffering from sleep bruxism (SB), associating these characteristics with the quality of sleep. For this, we followed the International Classification of Sleep Disorders for the diagnosis of SB, in addition to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) for the classification of TMD and cone beam computed tomography. It was found that 97.7% of the individuals with bruxism had at least 1 RDC/TMD group III diagnosis, 75.6% of the subjects considered their sleep quality as poor, and the largest group (23%) had centric bruxism. There was no significant association between the pattern of sleep quality (P = 0.36), the type of SB (P = 0.277), and the presence of degenerative changes of the TMJ. Regardless of the quality of sleep and the type of bruxism presented, the prevalence of degenerative bone disorders was high (67%) among women with a mean age of 46 years and a clinical diagnosis of SB.

Facial gunshot wounds pose a challenge for head and neck surgeons as it is usually accompanied by significant soft and bone tissue loss and impairment of the stomatognathic system. This article reports the case of a patient who had sustained facial gunshot wound and had the projectile lodged at the upper disk space of the right-side temporomandibular joint, which caused mandible function impairment and pain. The projectile was surgically removed via endaural access, and the patient was later submitted to physiotherapy. After treatment, the function of the joint was reestablished, the pain disappeared, and the aesthetics results were considered excellent, with no sequels. The surgical removal of the projectile of the temporomandibular joint combined with the postsurgical physiotherapy showed to be an efficient treatment to the present case.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular disorders are diseases causing pain and dysfunction in joints and muscles controlling mandibular movements. Their etiology is multifactorial and multidisciplinary approaches are needed to reach a differential diagnosis and an adequate management plan. This case report proposes a management protocol, with monthly sodium hyaluronate infiltrations, with different molecular weights, to control such changes and promote improvement of temporomandibular joint biomechanics and pain. CASE REPORT: This study describes a case of a 48-year old patient with a 10-year history of temporomandibular pain with function loss since 2001. Patient has classified her pain as 9 according to analog visual scale. In addition, history and detailed physical evaluation have shown different signs and symptoms, such as localized pain (right side), and right temporomandibular joint arthralgia with noise. Diagnosis was disc displacement with reduction and possible synovitis/ capsulitis to the right. Right temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis was also diagnosed by cone beam CT-scan. Initially, a flat upper splint with total coverage and contact with all antagonist teeth was used. In the attempt to decrease temporomandibular arthralgia, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants were used. Since right temporomandibular joint pain was not effectively managed, we decided to use intra-joint sodium hyaluronate injections with different molecular weights, per month, in a total of four applications. At treatment completion, clinical evaluation has shown normal function, no pain with visual analog scale = zero, in addition to adequate interincisal distance. CONCLUSION: This report has suggested that viscosupplementation cycles with sodium hyaluronate of different molecular weights may provide excellent results in the long run, to control joint temporomandibular disorder symptoms. Therapeutic benefits were maintained for four years with no need for annual maintenance cycles.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of self-care combined with anti-inflammatory medications in the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain associated with disc displacement without reduction (DDWOR). A systematic review of randomized clinical trials was done by the authors. The databases searched were Medline (1966 to July 2012); EMBASE (1980 to July 2012); and LILACS (from 1982 to July 2012). The review authors independently assessed trials for eligibility and methodological quality and also extracted all data. The data was double-checked for accuracy. There was no language restriction in the searches of EMBASE, PubMed, and LILACS databases, or in the manual search. The risk of bias and the heterogeneity of the studies taken into consideration were assessed. Two studies, randomizing 175 patients, were included in this review. The first study (n = 106) compared the following interventions: medical treatment, rehabilitation, arthroscopic surgery with postoperative rehabilitation, or arthroplastic surgery with post-operative rehabilitation. The second study (n = 69) compared the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and self-care instructions, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, occlusal splint, and mobilization therapy. The third group received no treatment; patients were only informed of their prognosis. There is no sufficient evidence regarding efficacy and safety of the palliative treatments associated with anti-inflammatory versus other treatments, or absence of treatment on pain reduction in patients with TMJ DDWOR.

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Realizar uma revisão a cerca das diferentes técnicas de artrocentese empregadas nas disfunções artrogênicas da articulação temporomandibular (ATM), bem como das suas indicações, seu possível mecanismo de ação e complicações. CONTEÚDO: Pesquisas têm sido realizadas, nesses últimos anos, na tentativa de padronizar diferentes protocolos de artrocentese empregadas nas disfunções temporomandibulares (DTM), no intuito de definir quando e como empregá-las. Essas técnicas são pouco invasivas, de baixo custo, podendo ser realizadas sob anestesia local, com ou sem sedação, replicáveis e de baixa morbidade. São indicadas para aliviar ou eliminar o quadro de dor e disfunção artrogênica presente. CONCLUSÃO: Várias técnicas de artrocentese combinadas ou não com anti-inflamatórios, opioides, substâncias viscoelásticas, produzem resultados adequados nas DTM artrogênicas, porém o sucesso terapêutico depende da cronicidade da doença, de suas características clínicas e de imagem, do diagnóstico correto, da colaboração do paciente, da experiência do profissional e da técnica empregada. BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This is a review of different arthrocentesis techniques used for arthrogenic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, as well as their indications, their possible action mechanisms and complications. CONTENTS: Studies have been carried out in recent years in the attempt to standardize different arthrocentesis (TMD), protocols used for temporomandibular joint disorders, to define when and how to use them. These are minimally invasive and low cost techniques which may be performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation, in addition to being replicable and having low morbidity. They are indicated to relief or control pain and arthrogenic disorders. CONCLUSION: Several arthrocentesis techniques, combined or not with anti-inflammatory, opioids or viscoelastic substances, produce adequate results for arthrogenic TMD, however the therapeutic success depends on disease chronicity, on its clinical and imaging characteristics, on the accurate diagnosis, on patients' cooperation, on professionals' experience and on the technique used.

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A disfunção temporomandibular (DTM) é um termo que descreve um grupo de doenças que afetam funcionalmente o aparelho mastigatório, particularmente a musculatura mastigatória e a articulação temporomandibular (ATM). Tem etiologias múltiplas e tratamentos específicos, entre os quais a estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea (TENS). O objetivo deste artigo é o de revisar a literatura científica sobre o uso da TENS em pacientes com DTM. CONTEÚDO: Estudos epidemiológicos mostram que aproximadamente 75% da população apresentam algum sinal de DTM, enquanto 33% possuem ao menos um sintoma. Sempre que possível deve-se tratar a causa da dor, caso não se consiga estabelecer a sua etiologia, inicia- -se com procedimentos menos invasivos e reversíveis, especialmente nos casos de dor e disfunção muscular. A terapia com TENS consiste na administração de corrente elétrica na superfície cutânea, de modo a relaxar os músculos hiperativos e promover o alívio da dor. CONCLUSÃO: Embora existam controvérsias quanto ao uso de TENS para o controle da dor crônica, seu uso na dor muscular mastigatória continua relevante. Entretanto, é fundamental o diagnóstico preciso para evitar uso inadequado. São necessários ainda estudos randomizados controlados que incluam amostras selecionadas para homogeneizar o uso de TENS em pacientes com DTM. BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) is a term to describe a group of diseases functionally affecting the masticatory system, especially masticatory muscles and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It has different etiologies and specific treatments, among them the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). This article aimed at reviewing the scientific literature on the use of TENS in TMJD patients. CONTENTS: Epidemiological studies show that approximately 75% of people have some TMJD sign, while 33% have at least one symptom. Whenever possible, one should treat the cause of pain. When it is impossible to determine its etiology, one should start with less invasive and reversible procedures, especially for pain and muscle dysfunction. TENS therapy consists of administering electrical current to the skin surface, to relax hyperactive muscles and promote pain relief. CONCLUSION: Although there are controversies about the use of TENS to control chronic pain, its use for masticatory muscle pain is still relevant. However, an accurate diagnosis is needed to prevent its inadequate use. We still need controlled randomized studies including selected samples to homogenize the use of TENS in TMJD patients.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To study the etiopathogeny and diagnosis of anterior dislocation of head of mandible (ADHM), as well as its therapeutic indications: conservative and surgical treatment. CONTENTS: ADHM is characterized by its position anterior to the articular tubercle, configuring an anatomic and functional disharmony where the patient is unable to close the mouth. It may be related to abnormal activity of mastication muscles during mouth opening, to the act of yawning and even to the act of guffawing. Treatment modalities vary from conservative to surgical techniques, depending fundamentally on the complexity and periodicity of the problem. The first options are conservative techniques for immediate reduction, temporary relief or stabilization of the joint; when they fail or the treatment is impossible, surgical techniques may be used. CONCLUSION: Although uncommon in epidemiological terms, ADHM is still a challenge for health professionals due to its complexity and, at the same time, because it is unforeseeable. The treatment of choice depends on professionals' experience and skills. To date, we lack longitudinal studies and randomized clinical trials to compare the therapeutic efficacy of each modality. JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Realizar um estudo a cerca da etiopatogenia e diagnóstico do deslocamento anterior da cabeça da mandíbula (DACM), bem como, de suas indicações terapêuticas: tratamento conservador e cirúrgico. CONTEÚDO: O DACM caracteriza-se pelo seu posicionamento anterior ao tubérculo articular, configurando uma desarmonia anatômica e funcional, em que o paciente não consegue fechar a boca. Pode estar relacionada à atividade anormal dos músculos da mastigação durante a abertura bucal, no ato de bocejar e até mesmo no ato de gargalhar. As modalidades de tratamento variam de técnicas conservadoras a técnicas cirúrgicas, dependendo fundamentalmente da complexidade e da sua periodicidade. Optam-se, primeiramente, por técnicas conservadoras para redução imediata, alívio temporário ou estabilização da articulação; frente à falha da(s) mesma(s) ou à impossibilidade de tratamento, pode lançar-se mão de técnicas cirúrgicas. CONCLUSÃO: Apesar de infrequente, em termos epidemiológicos, o DACM continua a desafiar o profissional da saúde, em função de sua complexidade e, ao mesmo tempo, imprevisibilidade. A escolha quanto ao tratamento recai sobre a experiência e manuseio do profissional. Faltam, até o presente momento, estudos longitudinais e ensaios clínicos aleatórios que possam comparar a efetividade terapêutica de cada modalidade.

INTRODUCTION: Knowledge of the different imaging tests and their appropriate indications is crucial to establish the diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders, especially in patients with overlapping signs and symptoms. OBJECTIVE: To present and assess the main diagnostic imaging tests for temporomandibular disorders and rationally discuss their indication criteria, advantages, and disadvantages. METHODS: Literature review in the Web of Knowledge, PubMed and SciELO databases, as well as manual search for relevant publications in reference lists of the selected articles. RESULTS: Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were considered the gold standard assessments for the temporomandibular joint to evaluate hard and soft tissues, respectively. Each diagnostic method exhibited distinct sensitivity and specificity for the different subtypes of joint dysfunction. CONCLUSION: Selecting an evaluation examination based on its accuracy, safety, and clinical relevance is a rational decision that can help lead to an accurate diagnosis and an optimum treatment plan. Resumo Introdução: O conhecimento dos distintos exames de imagem e sua correta indicação é fundamental para elaboração do diagnóstico das disfunções temporomandibulares, principalmente em pacientes com grande sobreposição de sinais e sintomas. Objetivo: Apresentar e avaliar os principais exames de diagnóstico por imagem das disfunções temporomandibulares, além de discutir racionalmente os seus critérios de indicação, vantagens e desvantagens. Método: Revisão da literatura nas bases de dados Web of Knowledge, PubMed e SciELO, além de busca manual por publicações relevantes nas listas de referências dos artigos selecionados. Resultado: Os exames de tomografia computadorizada e ressonância magnética foram considerados ''padrão-ouro'' para a avaliação dos tecidos duros e moles, respectivamente, da articulação temporomandibular. Cada método de diagnóstico pesquisado apresentou sensibilidade e especificidade distintas para os diferentes subtipos de disfunção da articulação. Conclusão: Considera-se como racional a indicação fundamentada na acurácia, segurança e relevância clínica do exame a ser solicitado, o que implica na adequada determinação do diagnóstico e do plano de tratamento.

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A disfunção temporomandibular compreende um termo coletivo que envolve alterações clínicas nos músculos da mastigação, das articulações temporomandibulares e/ou estruturas associadas.O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma análise crítica, utilizando as principais bases de dados, sobre a efetividade e a segurança do hialuronato de sódio no tratamento das disfunções temporomandibulares de origem articular, a fim de recomendar ou refutar seu uso na prática clínica. CONTEÚDO: Os estudos foram obtidos através das seguintes bases de dados: Medline, via PubMed (1966 - 2013), Registro de Ensaios Controlados Cochrane, (2012), Embase (1980 - 2013) e LILACS (1982 - 2013). A estratégia utilizada foi a busca ajustada para cada base, a fim de identificar o maior número possível de estudos envolvendo o uso do hialuronato de sódio no tratamento da disfunção temporomandibular de origem articular. Houve limitação do idioma, buscando artigos em língua inglesa. Cruzaram-se os seguintes descritores: tratamento da articulação temporomandibular versus hialuronato de sódio versus deslocamento agudo e crônico do disco com e sem redução versus ácido hialurônico versus osteoartrite e osteoartrose versus viscossuplementação. Como critérios de inclusão foram analisados estudos randomizados, uni ou duplamente encobertos, série de casos, com 15 ou mais participantes. Excluíram-se relato de caso, estudos abertos "open-label", estudos em modelos animais e artigos relacionados a tratamento da disfunção artrogênica que não possuíssem como uma das terapias a infiltração de hialuronato de sódio na articulação temporomandibular. A qualidade metodológica desses estudos foi avaliada e classificada conforme o nível de evidência do Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine. CONCLUSÃO: De acordo com a análise crítica dos estudos incluídos, pode-se afirmar que o uso do hialuronato de sódio é eficaz e seguro, sendo recomendado no tratamento das seguintes condições: deslocamento agudo e crônico do disco com redução e sem redução, osteoartrose, osteoartrite e doença articular degenerativa. BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular disorder is a collective term involving clinical masticatory muscles, temporomandibular joints and/or associated structures changes. This study aimed at reviewing, using major databases, the effectiveness and safety of sodium hyaluronate in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders, aiming at recommending or discarding its clinical use. CONTENTS: The following databases were queried: Medline, via Pubmed (1966-2013), Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials (2012), Embase (1980-2013) and LILACS (1982-2013). The strategy was a search adjusted to each database to identify the largest possible number of studies involving sodium hyalorunate to manage joint temporomandibular disorders. Language was limited to articles published in English. The following keywords were crossed: temporomandibular joint management, versus sodium hyalorunate, versus acute or chronic reducing or nonreducing disk displacement, versus hyaluronic acid, versus osteoarthritis, versus viscosupplementation. Inclusion criteria were randomized, blind or double-blind studies, and case series with 15 or more participants. Exclusion criteria were open label-label studies, animal model studies and articles related to arthrogenous disorders not being treated with sodium hyalorunate infiltration of the temporomandibular joint. Methodological quality of such studies was evaluated and classified according to the level of evidence of the Oxford Center for Evidence Based Medicine. CONCLUSION: According to this review, one may state that sodium hyalorunate is effective and safe, being recommended to manage the following conditions: acute and chronic reducing and nonreducing disk displacement, osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease.