Modified dextrose prolotherapy for recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation

Conservative interventions with simple procedures and predictable benefits are expected by patients with recurrent dislocation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). We have introduced a modified technique of prolotherapy that comprises injection of lignocaine and 50% dextrose at a single site in the posterior periarticular tissues. We studied the effects in 45 younger patients (age range 17-59 years) with non-neurogenic recurrent dislocation of the TMJ, and confirmed the therapeutic effect after more than a year's follow-up. There were appreciable improvements in the number of episodes of dislocation and clicking after the injection. The overall success rate, defined as the absence of any further dislocation or subluxation for more than 6 months, was 41/45 (91%). Of the 41 rehabilitated patients, 26 (63%) required a single injection, 11 (27%) had 2 treatments, and 4 (10%) needed a third injection. All patients tolerated the injections well. The modified dextrose prolotherapy is simple, safe, and cost-effective for the treatment of recurrent dislocation of the TMJ.