Determination of optimal points for botulinum toxin injections in the treatment of patients with temporomandibular myofascial pain syndrome

To understand the processes occurring during the development of temporomandibular myofascial pain syndrome, a clear description of the anatomical components is necessary. In the literature, the term «stomatognathic system» is used for this, the elements of which are the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles and the dental periodontal complex. Each component of the system is influenced by a number of factors, primarily psychological, which causes the subjectivization of clinical manifestations from headaches to pathological tooth cutting and the development of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. One of the methods of treating this pathology is to inject botulinum toxin type A into the chewing muscles. However, the question of the choice of methods of administration of botulinum toxin and its dosage remains relevant.

Materials and methods. Botulinum toxin injections were performed outside and intraoral in 30 patients with temporomandibular myofascial pain syndrome. The effectiveness of the therapy was evaluated on the basis of clinical examination data, analysis of the degree of mouth opening before the start of treatment, after 14 days, 6 and 12 months.

Results. The high efficiency of botulinum toxin type A injections in the treatment of the above pathology has been proven.

Conclusion. It is important to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment based on the developed clinical examination methods, if necessary, correct it in a timely manner at all stages of treatment and follow-up of patients with temporomandibular myofascial pain syndrome.