Temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis: a single-center experience and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this paper was to report our experience and to review the literature of arthrocentesis focusing on protocols and results. METHODS: Arthrocentesis with supplemental hyaluronic acid was performed in patients with TMDs between January 2017 and December 2020 at the Division of Maxillofacial Surgery. The maximum interincisal opening (MIO) and pain score were recorded preoperatively (T0), 2 months postoperatively (T1), and 6 months postoperatively (T2). A literature search was performed to analyze the same parameters in patients with TMDs. Patient demographic, characteristics and treatment protocols used were also recorded. RESULTS: This retrospective analysis enrolled 45 patients. Twenty-two patients (20 females, 2 males) with mean age of 37.13 years with internal derangement were included in study group A. Study group B included 23 patients with degenerative joint disease (19 females and 4 males) with mean age of 55.73 years. The outcomes trend of MIO and pain during the follow-up period showed a gradual improvement. Fifty articles meeting the proposed scientific criteria were selected for the literature revision. A range of clinical and procedural variables were analyzed by grouping the studies into two broad categories based on the diagnosis of TMD. CONCLUSIONS: Based on our experience and on the basis of the most accredited scientific studies in the literature, intra-articular injections of HA are beneficial for the improvement of the pain and/or functional symptoms of TMDs.

Successful replacement of a detached pedestal during support with Jarvik 2000.

Infection in patients supported with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) is common and it can limit widespread implantation of mechanical assistance as destination therapy (DT). The infection-resistance power delivery system could improve longevity and quality of life. The Jarvik 2000 (Jarvik Heart, New York, NY, USA) driveline design showed a prolonged infection-free survival and a better quality of life compared to those patients supported with traditional LVAD with an abdominal cable. We report a singular driveline complication in a 71-year-old patient supported with a Jarvik 2000. A new retroauricular pedestal was successfully repositioned after the detachement of the first one.