The effect of etodolac on experimental temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis in dogs.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to test the effect of etodolac on a dog model of osteoarthritic temporomandibular joints (TMJ).

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Ten adult beagle dogs underwent surgery to induce osteoarthritis in the right TMJ, and were then randomly divided into two groups each of 5 dogs. From 2 to 6 weeks after surgery, the dogs in group 1 (control group) were given an empty gelatin capsule daily, and the dogs in group 2 (study group) were given 15 mg/kg of etodolac daily. All joints were examined radiologically and histologically 8 weeks postoperatively.

RESULTS

In group 1, the operated right joints showed severe osteoarthritic changes in the condyle and severe morphological differences in comparison with the unoperated (left joint). Group 2 showed fewer morphological differences between the unoperated control (left) and the operated (right) TMJ. Osteoarthritic changes in the TMJ were significantly less severe in group 2 (etodolac) than in group 1.

CONCLUSION

Oral administration of etodolac at a dose of 15 mg/kg minimized the continuation of experimentally induced osteoarthritic changes in the canine TMJ, when compared with the placebo. Thus, etodolac may play a role in preventing progression of human TMJ osteoarthritis.