Different intra-articular injection substances following temporomandibular joint arthroscopy and their effect on early postoperative period: A randomized clinical trial

Objective To compare the effect of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF), hyaluronic acid (HA), and saline intra-articular injections following temporomandibular joint arthroscopy on decreasing pain and increasing maximal mouth opening. Methods Included patients were randomized into three groups: PRGF group, hyaluronic acid group, and control group. Intra-articular injections were done at the end of the arthroscopy. Pain was measured using the VAS scale preoperatively, 7 days, 1 month, and 6 months postoperatively. Maximal mouth opening was measured preoperatively and 7 days postoperatively. Results There was a statistically significant decrease in pain in all groups, although, the decrease was significantly greater in the HA group following surgery. Conclusion A hyaluronic acid injection following temporomandibular joint arthroscopy can decrease pain better than saline and platelet-rich plasma during the first postoperative week. However, the results do not differ in later postoperative periods.