Effectiveness of Platelet‐Rich Fibrin for Temporomandibular Disorders Management: A Systematic and Meta‐Analysis

Objective This study systematically reviewed the effect of intra‐articular injection (IAI) of platelet‐rich fibrin (i‐PRF), alone or combined with arthrocentesis or arthroscopy, in managing painful articular temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and improving maximum mouth opening (MMO). Materials and Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in five databases, identifying randomized and nonrandomized clinical trials focusing on minimally invasive TMJ interventions using i‐PRF. Meta‐analyses were performed with a random‐effects model for studies reporting similar outcomes, visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain, and MMO values. Results Out of 332 studies identified, 13 met the inclusion criteria for meta‐analysis. Within‐group comparisons revealed significant pain reduction at 3–6 and 8–12 months for i‐PRF alone or combined with arthrocentesis or arthroscopy. MMO values significantly increased using i‐PRF alone at 8–12 months, combined with arthrocentesis or arthroscopy at 3–6 and 8–12 months, with no significant increase using i‐PRF alone at 3–6 months. Between‐group analyses demonstrated that i‐PRF combined with arthrocentesis significantly reduced VAS scores and increased MMO values compared to arthrocentesis alone at 3–6 and 8–12 months. Conclusion Using i‐PRF alone or combined with arthrocentesis or arthroscopy is effective in pain reduction and MMO increase.