PRP After Arthrocentesis for TMJ-OA: Meta-Analysis of 6 RCTs
Xu F · BMC Oral Health (2025)
DOI: 10.1186/s12903-025-05826-5This 2025 meta-analysis specifically evaluated whether adding PRP injection after TMJ arthrocentesis (joint lavage) improves outcomes compared to arthrocentesis alone for TMJ osteoarthritis. Six RCTs with 199 patients were included. PRP injection after arthrocentesis produced significantly greater pain relief and improved maximum mouth opening compared to arthrocentesis alone.
Clinical Relevance
For oral and maxillofacial surgeons performing TMJ arthrocentesis, adding PRP injection provides measurable additional benefit for pain and function. This supports a combined approach rather than lavage alone.
Key Takeaways
- PRP after arthrocentesis significantly reduced pain (SMD=0.94, p<0.00001)
- MMO significantly improved (SMD=0.63, p=0.0002)
- Joint sounds NOT significantly improved (p=0.06)
- 6 RCTs, 199 patients
- Benefits most evident at 1 and 6 months
- Limited 12-month follow-up data available
- Arthrocentesis with PRP > arthrocentesis alone
Key Findings
6 RCTs, 199 patients. PRP after arthrocentesis significantly reduced pain (SMD=0.94, p<0.00001) and improved MMO (SMD=0.63, p=0.0002) vs arthrocentesis alone. No significant improvement in joint sounds (p=0.06).
Clinical Context
Study Design
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Condition
TMJ Osteoarthritis (after arthrocentesis)
Sample Size
199 patients
Follow-up
12 months
Control Group
Arthrocentesis alone (saline/Ringer's lavage)
Primary Outcome
VAS Pain, Maximum Mouth Opening (MMO), Joint Sounds
PRP Protocol & Intervention
Preparation System
Various across 6 RCTs
Guidance Method
Post-arthrocentesis injection