Otologic manifestations of temporomandibular disorders: effects of TMJ arthrocentesis

INTRODUCTION: A bidirectional interaction may exist between temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and otologic symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate changes in patient-reported otologic symptoms following temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthrocentesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 40 patients who underwent TMJ arthrocentesis. Demographic data, TMJ-related clinical findings, otologic symptoms, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were assessed preoperatively and at a 30-day follow-up. RESULTS: .The majority of patients were female (82.5%), with a mean age of 35.4 ± 11.03 years. Significant reductions were observed in otalgia and tinnitus after arthrocentesis (p < .05). No significant changes were detected in hearing loss or vertigo (p > .05). VAS scores showed significant improvement in TMD symptoms, otalgia, and tinnitus, while hearing loss and vertigo remained unchanged. CONCLUSION: TMJ arthrocentesis was associated with subjective improvement in otalgia and tinnitus in patients with TMD, whereas hearing loss and vertigo showed no significant change.