Single needle arthrocentesis (Shepard cannula) vs. double needle arthrocentesis for treating disc displacement without reduction
Objectives: To compare single vs. double needle arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation for treating disc displacement without reduction of the temporomandibular joint. Methods: Fifty six patients with a magnetic resonance imaging diagnosis of non reducing disc displacement were included. Arthrocentesis with viscosupplementation was performed on patients in group I using the Y shaped needle (Shepard cannula) technique; the standard double needle technique was performed on patients in group II. Patients were evaluated on postoperative day 1, and 1, 3, and 6 months later, patient and procedure related parameters were assessed. Results: In both groups, significant improvement in the baseline levels was achieved (p 0.01) Both techniques were equally effective at reducing pain and increasing the maximal mouth opening. The single needle technique was easier to perform and required a shorter operative time (p 0.01) Discussion: Single needle (Shepard cannula) arthrocentesis can be an alternative to the standard technique; however, it might add to the cost of the procedure.
Cranio the journal of craniomandibular practice