Efficacy of Intra-Articular Platelet-Rich Plasma in Reducing Pain and Improving Function in Patients with Temporomandibular Joint Internal Derangement: A Prospective Observational Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71000/ddy6v714Keywords:
temporomandibular joint; internal derangement; platelet-rich plasma; PRP; pain; jaw function; regenerative therapy; Wilkes stagingAbstract
Background: Temporo-mandibular joint internal derangement is considered as a common intra-articular disorder which is characterised by pain, restricted mandibular movement, ultimately affecting the quality of life. Conventional therapies frequently provide incomplete or temporary relief and lack regenerative potential.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of intra-articular platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in reducing pain and improving function in patients with Wilkes stage I–III TMJ internal derangement.
Methods: A prospective study was conducted at the Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, LUMHS, Jamshoro, enrolling 42 patients (aged 18–65 years) with clinically confirmed Wilkes stage I–III TMJ internal derangement refractory to conservative management. Autologous PRP (2–4 mL) was prepared by two-step centrifugation and administered intra-articularly. Outcomes—Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score and Maximum Mouth Opening (MMO)—were recorded at baseline, 1, and 3 months. Data were analysed using paired t-tests and repeated-measures ANOVA.
Results: Mean VAS fell from 7.4±1.2 at baseline to 3.1±1.0 at three months (58.1% reduction; p<0.001). Mean MMO improved from 31.2±5.1 mm to 38.4±4.2 mm (23.1% improvement; p<0.001). Stage III prevalence decreased from 28.6% at baseline to 16.7% at three months. Overall, 78.6% of patients achieved ≥50% pain reduction at three months. Minor adverse events occurred in 11.9%; no serious complications were reported.
Conclusion: Intra-articular PRP therapy produced significant, progressive pain relief and functional improvement over three months with a favourable safety profile in patients with early-to-moderate TMJ internal derangement. Randomised controlled trials with longer follow-up and imaging endpoints are warranted.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Agha Arbab, Kashif Ali Channar, Aftab Ahmed Kumbhar, Ram Pershad Chooni Lal Sharma, Ishrat Begum Raz, Dr. Abdul Bari Memon (Author)
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