Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the ideal volume of perfusate for arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders (TMDs).
Patients and methods: We evaluated 17 joints in 17 patients with TMD in this study. Arthrocentesis of the TMJ was done by perfusion of 400 mL of Ringer's solution. The first 5 mL of perfusate was collected, and then a 5-mL sample was collected when the total volume of perfusate outflow approached 50, 100, 200, 300, and 400 mL. The concentrations of bradykinin, interleukin-6, and protein were measured by immunoassay.
Results: The concentration of bradykinin, interleukin-6, and protein during arthrocentesis were effectively reduced by more than 200 mL of lavage (P <.05). With a perfusate volume of 300 to 400 mL, the protein and bradykinin were no longer detectable.
Conclusions: Arthrocentesis is effective for washing out bradykinin, interleukin-6, and protein from the TMJ, and the ideal lavage volume of perfusate for arthrocentesis is between 300 and 400 mL.