Comparison of two needles arthrocentesis versus double needle cannula arthrocentesis in the treatment of temporomandibular disc displacement

Objective 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). Methods 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. Results 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 (p> 0.05). The DNCA was performed significantly faster (p= 0.0001). Conclusion 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.