Temporomandibular joint syndrome treatment with peripheral nerve stimulation

Abstract

Introduction: Temporomandibular joint syndrome is defined by a triad of intense joint pain together with restriction of mouth opening and jaw clicking. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of peripheral nerve stimulation for the treatment of this pathology. Material and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted. All patients met selection criteria that include prior resistance to medical or surgical treatment and completion of a series of pre-surgical tests. An octopolar electrode was implanted in the affected preauricular region. The results were measured using the Analog Pain Scale, a short questionnaire on pain, improvement of restriction in mouth opening and reduction of analgesic medication.Results: A total of 10 patients with 14 performed procedures were included. The mean reduction in pain measured by VAS was 86.2% at one month and 79% at one year after surgery. All patients experienced a drastic improvement in pain and its impact according to the Brief Pain Inventory, the mean improvement being 90% at 4 weeks and 82% at one year. There was an improvement in the mean oral opening of 10.14 mm (minimum of 4 and maximum of 13 mm). One case was excluded due to the complication demanding the system removal.Conclusions: Patients with temporomandibular joint syndrome who do not respond to conventional treatments are ideal candidates for peripheral nerve stimulation, showing improvement in pain, oral restriction, and quality of life with a low percentage of serious complications.