This study evaluated the objective and subjective changes in a group of rheumatoid arthritic (RA) patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) complaints who were subjected to joint lysis and lavage.
Twelve females with previous documented RA underwent baseline assessment with erythrocyte sedimentation rate, physical examination of TMJ function, and a visual analog pain scale (VAPS). The VAPS and jaw function changes were recorded at 2-week intervals for 6 weeks after lysis and lavage under local anesthesia in an ambulatory setting.
All patients showed statistically significant post-treatment improvement in their pain, and function was enhanced.
TMJ arthrocentisis is a useful adjunct in the short-term management of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.