PRP for TMJ-OA Pain Reduction: Meta-Analysis of 6 RCTs
Bousnaki M · Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (2020)
DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2020.02.014This early meta-analysis established the evidence base for PRP in TMJ osteoarthritis by pooling six RCTs. PRP was significantly more effective than placebo for pain reduction at both 6 and 12 months, with large effect sizes. Additionally, PRP demonstrated superiority over hyaluronic acid at 12 months.
Clinical Relevance
Establishes PRP as a viable treatment for TMJ-OA with moderate-quality evidence. The sustained benefit at 12 months and superiority over both placebo and HA supports PRP as a preferred injection option for TMJ-OA.
Key Takeaways
- PRP vs placebo: significant at 6 months (MD -2.82) and 12 months (MD -3.29)
- PRP vs HA: significant at 12 months (MD -0.81, p=0.0001)
- Moderate level of evidence for both comparisons
- Effect sizes larger against placebo than against HA
- PRP sustained benefit through 12 months
- Calls for large-scale, low-bias RCTs
Key Findings
PRP more effective than placebo at 6 months (MD -2.82, p<0.00001) and 12 months (MD -3.29, p<0.00001). PRP also superior to HA at 12 months (MD -0.81, p=0.0001). Moderate evidence supporting PRP for TMJ-OA pain.
Clinical Context
Study Design
Meta-Analysis of RCTs
Condition
TMJ Osteoarthritis
Follow-up
12 months
Control Group
Placebo, HA
Primary Outcome
VAS Pain
PRP Protocol & Intervention
Preparation System
Various