Effects of local anesthetics on somatosensory function in the temporomandibular joint area

摘要: There is a need for systematic studies regarding the pathophysiology and pain mechanisms of somatosensory function in temporomandibular joint (TMJ). So far, effects on functions local anesthetics (LA) applied to auriculotemporal (AT) nerve or intraarticularly (IA) into TMJ have not been studied systemically. This study aimed examine double-blinded, placebo-controlled manner LA mechanical thermal sensitivity area. Twenty-eight healthy subjects (27.4 ± 6.2 years) without disorders (TMD) participated. The received an AT block (n = 14) IA injection with (Bupivacaine, 2.5 mg/ml) one side, placebo (isotonic saline) contralateral side. Mechanical (tactile pin-prick) (40 5°C) were assessed at 11 standardized points area before injections (baseline) as well 30 min, 1 2 h after injections. All stimuli rated by 0–100 numerical rating scale (NRS). pressure threshold (PPT) tolerance (PPTOL) laterally over both TMJs using algometer. associated any changes surrounding In contrast, blocks caused decrease time pin-prick (P 0.016), which however, did differ significantly from saline, increase PPTs min 0.010) PPTOLs < 0.05) comparison saline. No other measures showed significant change Our results that bupivacaine has no effect area, while more pronounced deep mechanical, but superficial sensitivity. Further research investigate patients this will give valuable information about