Abstract
AIM: Autologous blood injections (ABI) have shown promise in treating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation, but the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the histological changes in the TMJ of rabbits after ABI at various time points. METHODS: Eighteen white New Zealand rabbits were allocated into a control group (n = 4) and a study group (n = 14). The study group underwent ABI in the TMJ superior joint space and peri-capsular area; while, the control group received no interventions. The rabbits were euthanized at different time intervals: 2 weeks (n = 2), 4 weeks (n = 2), 6 weeks (n = 6), and 10 weeks (n = 4) post-injections. Histological examination was conducted to assess the TMJ for changes in articular cartilage, chondrocyte appearance, osteochondral junction, subchondral bone structure, inflammation, and fibrosis. RESULTS: During the early weeks (2 and 4), cartilage thickening, chondrocyte clustering, and signs of inflammation were observed. Conversely, in the late weeks (6 and 10), cartilage thinning, hypocellular chondrocytes, disruptions in the osteochondral junction, and increased subchondral bone trabeculation were evident. No fibrosis was noted in any group. CONCLUSION: The histological changes occurring in the TMJ of rabbits following ABI is dynamic and changing at different time points. We reported early cartilage thickening and late thinning. Fibrosis was not noted to play a role in our sample.