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.