Microbiological investigation of the mandibular condyle in patients with advanced osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of bacteria in samples of the temporomandibular joint taken from patients suffering from advanced osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Materials and methods: 25 fresh mandibular condyle samples were taken from 17 consecutive patients undergoing mandibular condylectomy (8 bilateral) for advanced TMJ osteoarthritis (Dimitroulis Category 5 joints). The joint samples were stained and cultured for the presence of microorganisms following a standardised joint culture protocol. Results: No evidence of bacteria was found on staining or solid culture mediums. Late growth (day 12) of commensal skin organisms (P. Acnes, S. E..