Comparative Study between Meloxicam and Piroxicam Intra-Articular Injection after arthrocentesis for Management of Temporomandibular Joint Internal Derangement

Introduction: Internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint is theterm used to describe a pathologic entity that obstructs the smooth function of thetemporomandibular joint. Arthrocentesis is most used in patients not responding toconservative approach. Aim: The aim of study was designed to compare betweencyclooxygenase-2inhibitor (meloxicam) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory(piroxicam) in the management of patients with TMJ internal derangement.Patients and methods: The present study was conducted on 12 adult joints withimpaired jaw movements, limited joint function, limited mouth opening, pain withmovement of the temporomandibular joint and TMJ noise (Clicking at the affectedjoint) and divided randomly into two equal groups 6 joints in each group. Group 1:where arthrocentesis were performed for the affected joint followed by intraarticularinjection of one ml of piroxicam. Group 2: where arthrocentesis were performedfor the affected joints followed by intraarticular injection of one ml. of Meloxicam.Results: Intra-articular injection of piroxicam is effective more than Meloxicamin long term management of pain of the joints and both of them give statisticallysignificant result in both management of clicking sound and mouth opening.Conclusion: Arthrocentesis followed by piroxicam is safe and more effective thanMeloxicam treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction.