Comparison of functional recovery after nonsurgical and surgical treatment of condylar fractures

Open versus closed treatment for extracapsular fracture of the mandibular condyle

Objectives

Selection of treatment methods for mandibular condylar fractures remains controversial. In this study, we investigated treatment methods for condylar fractures to determine the indications for open or closed reduction.

Patients and Methods

Patients >12 years of age treated for mandibular condylar fractures with a follow-up period of ≥3 months were included in this study. The medical records of enrolled patients were reviewed for sex, age, fracture site, treatment method (open or closed reconstruction), postoperative intermaxillary fixation period, operation time, and complications. Radiological analysis of fracture fragment displacement and changes in ramal height difference was performed using computed tomography and panoramic radiography.

Results

A total of 198 patients was investigated, 48.0% (n=95) of whom underwent closed reduction and 52.0% (n=103) underwent open reduction. There was no significant correlation between reduction method and patient sex, age, or follow-up period. No statistically significant difference between the incidence of complications and treatment method was observed. None of the patients underwent open reduction of condylar head fracture. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that open reduction was significantly more frequent in patients with subcondylar fracture compared to in those with a fracture in the condylar head area. There was no statistically significant correlation between the groups and fracture fragment displacement. However, there was a significant difference between the treatment groups in amount of change in ramal height difference between the fractured and the non-fractured sides during treatment.

Conclusion

No significant clinical differences were found between the open and closed reduction methods in patients with mandibular condylar fractures. According to fracture site, closed reduction was preferred for condyle head fractures. There was no significant relationship between fracture fragment displacement and treatment method.

Management of Mandibular Subcondylar Fracture Through an Intraoral Approach Using a Trans-Buccal Trocar With Ramus Buccal Decortication

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to review retrospectively the functional recoveries of subcondylar fracture patients that underwent open reduction surgery using an extraoral approach or an intraoral approach using a trans-buccal trocar and involving ramus buccal decortication.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Of 47 patients with mandibular condyle fracture who visited Pusan National University Dental Hospital Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery between May 2015 and November 2020, 38 patients underwent open reduction and were classified according to the surgical method used. Preauricular, submandibular, and retro-mandibular approaches were all classified as extraoral approaches condyle fractures were classified as described by Spiessl and Schroll (1972). Distances between bone fragments on panorama radiographs before and after surgery were measured.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients were included in this study, 9 patients received subcondylar fracture surgery. Open reduction surgery using an extraoral approach had a greater mean operation time than the intraoral approach using a trocar. Of the 17 patients treated with an intraoral approach, the average distance between bone fragments right after surgery was 1.27 ± 1.41 mm, which was significantly greater than that of the extraoral approach (0.72 ± 0.35 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

Favorable results can be obtained by mandibular condylar fracture surgery through an intraoral approach using a trans-buccal trocar with ramus buccal decortication. This technique minimizes scarring, secures accessibility using a trocar, and sufficiently secures the field of view through buccal cortical bone reduction.

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation Versus Closed Reduction and Maxillomandibular Fixation of Condylar Fractures of the Mandible: A Prospective Study

Background

The choice of surgical versus nonsurgical treatment for fractures of the condylar process has its own limitations and remains a controversial issue. Improved knowledge of anatomy, technique, and technology combined with adequate experience with careful planning of surgical technique can avoid all the possible complications.

Aim

To compare open reduction and internal fixation with closed reduction and maxillomandibular fixation in the management of condylar fractures.

Materials and method

A prospective study was carried out among 22 patients who had minimally displaced or displaced condylar fractures. The patients were divided into two groups of 11 each: group A patients treated with open reduction and rigid internal fixation and group B patients treated with closed reduction and maxillomandibular fixation. Follow-up examinations were performed at one week, one month, three months, and six months postoperatively.

Results

Preauricular pain was significantly decreased (p < 0.001) in both groups postoperatively but more significantly decreased in the open reduction group. There was a significant improvement in the mouth opening at every follow-up to a maximum mean of 37.36 mm in group A and a mean of 33.64 mm in group B. Significantly more improvement in protrusive and lateral movements and reduced deviation on mouth opening at every follow up was observed in the open reduction group.

Conclusion

Both the treatment options for condylar fractures of the mandible yielded acceptable results with significant clinical differences in terms of occlusion, mouth opening, functional movements, and pain among patients with open reduction.

Semi-Rigid Fixation Using a Sliding Plate for Treating Fractures of the Mandibular Condylar Process

Occlusal displacement often occurs after surgery for condylar process fractures because it is difficult to reduce these fractures precisely. However, performing semi-rigid fixation using a sliding plate may overcome this limitation. A retrospective clinical comparison between semi-rigid and rigid fixations was performed. Among 34 patients who had unilateral condylar process fractures, 17 were treated with rigid fixation and the remaining with semi-rigid fixation using a sliding plate. For all patients, panoramic radiographs were collected 1 day and 6 months after surgery. In these radiographs, ramus height and condylar process inclination were measured, and the differences between the fractured and normal sides were assessed. Additionally, the radiographic density of the fracture area was measured. Differences in surgical outcomes and operative times between the two groups and changes in postoperative deviations within each group were analyzed. There was no statistically significant difference in ramus height and condylar process inclination between the two groups at postoperative day 1 and 6 months. Radio-density was observed to be higher in the rigid fixation group, and it increased with time in both groups. The semi-rigid fixation group had a significantly shorter operative time than the other group did. Semi-rigid and rigid fixations showed no differences in terms of effectiveness and outcomes of surgery. In terms of operative time, semi-rigid fixation was superior to rigid fixation.

Operator Experience and Fracture Location Affects the Rate of Facial Nerve Injury in Condylar Fractures: An Analysis of 89 Cases

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to measure the frequency and identify risk factors for facial nerve injury (FNI) in the open treatment of condylar neck and subcondylar fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted over 5 years on patients who were treated surgically for mandibular condylar fractures using the retomandibular transparotid approach (RMTA). The primary result was FNI occurrence (yes/no). The predictor variables were demographic, fracture location, and pattern (dislocation, present or not), as well as surgeon experience. Post-treatment functional facial nerve changes were initially assessed in the operating room as the patient regained consciousness and documented thereafter within, the 1st and 3rd weeks, and 3rd and 6th months. Appropriate statistics were computed and, SPSS version 16 was used to analyze the data. χ² test and Fisher exact test were used to assess significance (P ≤ 0.05).

RESULTS

Eighty-nine patients with 102 condylar fractures (63 subcondylar and 26 condylar neck), with a mean age of 28.5±7.5 years and 91% men were evaluated. There were 15 subjects (16.8%) with FNI and among them 6 subjects had persistent facial weakness for 6-8 weeks that completely resolved within 3 months, with no permanent facial nerve paralysis. The marginal mandibular (n = 7), buccal (n = 6), and zygomatic (n = 2) were the facial nerve branches involved. Risk factors for FNI were operator' inexperience, fracture-dislocation, and condylar neck fracture to the site and location of the fracture. Multivariate logistic regression showed that the location of the fracture at neck level (0.030∗), fracture dislocation (<0.001∗), and operator's inexperience (0.003∗) were significant risk factors for postoperative facial nerve injury (P ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

If conducted properly, the RMTA is a safe method for treating condylar fractures with rare major complications; however, fracture dislocation, fractured condylar neck, and operator' in-experience were significantly associated with increased risk of developing transient postoperative FNI.

Will Closed Treatment Provide Better Mandibular Motion Than Open Reduction and Internal Fixation in Cases of Unilateral Displaced Subcondylar Fracture? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of the present systematic review was to determine whether closed treatment (CLT) with intermaxillary fixation (IMF) is superior or equivalent to open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in the management of unilateral displaced subcondylar fractures regarding the range of mandibular motion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To address our question, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the reported data after a comprehensive manual and electronic database search of studies reported up to 2017 in the English language that had compared CLT and ORIF of mandibular condyle fractures in adults. The following outcomes were recorded: maximum interincisal opening (MIO), protrusive movement (PM), lateral excursion toward the fractured side (LEFS), and lateral excursion toward the nonfractured side (LENFS).

RESULTS

The search resulted in 8 studies, 4 of which were included in the meta-analysis. The MIO and PM showed no statistically significant differences, with an effect size of -0.823 (P = .112) and -0.633 (P = .079), respectively. However, the LEFS and LENFS were superior after CLT, with an effect size of -0.710 (P = .031) and -0.682 (P = .017), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from the present review suggest that both ORIF and CLT can provide comparable MIO and PM in subjects with unilateral displaced subcondylar fractures. However, CLT was superior to ORIF for both LEFS and LENFS.

A comparative study of intraoral versus retromandibular approach in the management of subcondylar fracture

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes and effectiveness between intraoral approach and retromandibular approach for treatment of subcondylar fracture of mandible.

Methods

Between March 2011 and October 2013, 24 patients with subcondylar fractures of the mandible were treated by a single surgeon with an intraoral approach using an angulated screwdriver (n = 14) or by another surgeon using a retromandibular approach (n = 10). The interincisal distance was measured 1 week (T0), 6 weeks (T1), 3 months (T2), and 6 months (T3) postoperatively. We also compare the average operation time and the cost of operation between the two groups.

Results

At 6 months postoperatively, all 24 patients achieved satisfactory ranges of temporomandibular joint movement, with an interincisal distance > 40 mm without deviation and with stable centric occlusion. The intraoral group had the median interincisal distance of 14 mm at T0, 38 mm at T1, 42.5 mm at T2, and 43 mm at T3, while the retromandibular group had that of 15, 29, 35, and 42.5 mm respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the intraoral and the retromandibular group at T0 and T4. However, significant differences were noted T1 and T2 (p < 0.01). The differences of average operation time between the intraoral (81 min) and retromandibular group (45 min) were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The cost of an operation was 369.96 ± 8.14 (United States dollar [USD]) in intraoral group and was 345.48 ± 0.0 (USD) in retromandibular group. The differences between the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

In open reduction of a subcondylar fracture of the mandible, a intraoral approach using an angulated screwdriver is superior to the retromandibular approach in terms of interincisal distance, although the operation time is longer.

Unilateral Subcondylar and Condylar Neck Fractures: Randomized Clinical Study

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of the present study was to compare closed treatment with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for subcondylar and condylar neck fractures.

Materials and Methods:

This randomized prospective study was conducted on thirty patients who visited the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Government Dental College, Srinagar, with condylar fractures. All fractures were displaced; either angulated between 10° and 45° and the ascending ramus was shortened by >2 mm to <15 mm. Patients were divided into two groups after satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria – Group I (closed treatment) and Group II (open reduction) (15 implants in each group). In Group I, patients were treated by mandibulo-maxillary fixation using arch bar and elastics for 4 weeks, and in Group II, patients were treated by ORIF using two 1.5-mm miniplates. Follow-up was done at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Our postoperative evaluation included five parameters – maximal interincisal opening, protrusion, lateral excursion on fractured and nonfractured sides, anatomical reduction, and pain and malocclusion. Nonparametric data were compared for statistical significance with Chi square test and parametric data with an independent sample's t-test (P < 0.05).

Results:

Correct anatomical position of the fragments was achieved significantly more accurately in the operative group in contrast to the closed treatment group. Regarding mouth opening/lateral excursion on fractured and nonfractured sides/protrusion, significant (P < 0.05) differences were observed between both groups (open 39.73/7.50/8.17/7.87 mm vs. closed 36.87/6.07/7.23/7.13 mm). Pain also revealed significant (P = 0.025) difference with less pain in the operative treatment group.

Conclusion:

Both treatment options for condylar fractures of the mandible yielded acceptable results. However, operative treatment was superior in all objective and subjective functional parameters except occlusion.

Protrusive maxillomandibular fixation for intracapsular condylar fracture: a report of two cases

Clinical limitations following closed reduction of an intracapsular condylar fracture include a decrease in maximum mouth opening, reduced range of mandibular movements such as protrusion/lateral excursion, and reduced occlusal stability. Anteromedial and inferior displacement of the medial condyle fragment by traction of the lateral pterygoid muscle can induce bone overgrowth due to distraction osteogenesis between the medial and lateral condylar fragments, causing structural changes in the condyle. In addition, when conventional maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) is performed, persistent interdental contact sustains masticatory muscle hyperactivity, leading to a decreased vertical dimension and premature contact of the posterior teeth. To resolve the functional problems of conventional closed reduction, we designed a novel method for closed reduction through protrusive MMF for two weeks. Two patients diagnosed with intracapsular condylar fracture had favorable occlusion after protrusive MMF without premature contact of the posterior teeth. This particular method has two main advantages. First, in the protrusive position, the lateral condylar fragment is moved in the anterior-inferior direction closer to the medial fragment, minimizing bone formation between the two fragments and preventing structural changes. Second, in the protrusive position, posterior disclusion occurs, preventing masticatory muscle hyperactivity and the subsequent gradual decrease in ramus height.

Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures: A Review on Treatment Strategies

Condylar injuries are often subjected to discussion and controversy in maxillofacial surgery as they constitute many of the facial fractures. The condylar area has a great clinical value due to its important components. Vital components in this area are susceptible to functional disability due to either the fracture itself or the subsequent surgical intervention. Each of the strategies for the management of these fractures has its advantages and disadvantages. As there are controversies around management of condylar fractures, different treatment modalities are suggested in literature, so this paper reviews different treatment strategies of the following types of fractures in adults: 1-Closed reduction with maxillomandibular fixation, 2-Open reduction with internal fixation, 3-Endoscopic-assisted reduction with internal fixation. In conclusion, we declare that the endoscopic surgery is certainly a good replacement for approaches through the skin, for subcondylar fractures, but still more randomized clinical trials are needed to be carried out on this issue.

Evaluation of the Mandibular Function, after Nonsurgical Treatment of Unilateral Subcondylar Fracture: A 1-Year Follow-Up Study

There are no clearly defined guidelines for when an open or closed treatment is indicated for treatment of mandibular condylar fractures. The aim of the study is to analyze the mandibular function after nonsurgical treatment of unilateral subcondylar fractures, in a prospective study. A prospective study was conducted on 30 patients with unilateral mandibular subcondylar fracture undergoing nonsurgical treatment. Clinical and radiographic examinations were done prior to treatment and at 12-month follow-up. Pain, perceived occlusion, mouth opening, protrusion, and horizontal movements of the mandible were evaluated by clinical examination. Radiologic evaluation was done using Panoramic and Reverse Towne's radiographs. At 12-month follow-up, there was minimal pain in the temporomandibular joint region, there was an improvement in the perceived occlusion, and mouth opening did not reduce. There was insignificant absolute difference between left and right lateral mandibular movements. The amount of increase in the protrusion of mandible was insignificant. On radiographic evaluation, the degree of coronal and sagittal displacement was insignificant at follow-up. Mean ramus height pretreatment and 12 months posttreatment were 0.98 ± 0.50 and 0.87 ± 0.47, respectively. Based on this study, patients had adequate mandibular function and minimal pain after nonsurgical treatment. Unilateral subcondylar fractures of the mandible can be treated nonsurgically in patients with minimal occlusal discrepancies, adequate mouth opening, minimal displacement of condyle, and minimal ramus height shortening.

Surgical evolution in the treatment of mandibular condyle fractures

Background

In Literature fractures of the mandible that involve the condyle ranges from 20% to 35% and various possible surgical options are described according to the varying pathological situations. Up to the present, numerous techniques have been used for the surgical treatment of condylar fractures. In this article we are proposing the combination of two surgical techniques as therapy for extra-capsular condylar fractures with dislocation.

Methods

From June 2003 to July 2007 30 patients were treated for condylar fractures with the application of a Rigid External Fixator under endoscopic assistance. This method includes a surgical reduction of the fracture with the aid of an endoscope, performing a transcutaneous insertion of a Rigid External Fixator to stabilize the fracture.

Results

Out of the total number of patients, 28 reached an optimal result without the need for temporary immobilization of the temporal mandibular joint and pre-auricular cutaneous access, thanks to the decisive aid of the video-endoscope.

Conclusions

The endoscope allows perfect control over both the positioning of the external fixator and the surgical reduction, restoring the normal movement of the mandible with a return to full anatomical functioning of the temporo-mandibular joint. This approach avoids possible damages to the facial nerve branches. The rigid external fixation system is better than an internal one, because it is less restrictive in precise anatomical reduction, since with an REF the condylar fragment is kept in the correct anatomical position but is not obliged to maintain that exact position, and therefore it is possible to carry out all the repair mechanisms listed above. Endoscopic assistance allows a good positioning control of the REF although the endoscopy permits an optimal control of the condylemeniscal complex mobility after REF application.

The radiographic and functional outcome of bilateral mandibular condylar head fractures: a comparison between open and closed treatment

Bilateral mandibular condylar fractures accounts for 24% to 33% of condylar fractures but the indications of open reduction of bilateral condylar fracture are still controversial. It is generally accepted that displaced subcondylar fractures are indicated for open reduction, but the proper treatment of condylar head fractures are still variable. This retrospective study compares the radiographical and functional outcomes of bilateral condylar head fractures between open and closed reduction groups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From February 1994 to June 2012, a total of 85 patients with bilateral condylar head fractures were retrospectively reviewed. Among this group, 41 cases underwent open reductions while the other 44 cases had closed reductions. Only adult patients with adequate follow-up and complete radiographic study were included in this study: consisting of 20 patients in the open group and 18 patients in the closed group.The subjective symptoms including temporomandibular joints (TMJ) symptoms, complications or adverse sequelae, and functional results, such as maximal mouth opening, were recorded. The outcome of patient's satisfaction was individually assessed by an independent reviewer. The computed tomographic results after treatment were evaluated between both groups.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 25.5±13.3 months. The open reduction group had better postoperative chewing functions, less malocclusion rates, less degree of TMJ pain (p=0.046), better radiographic outcome (p=0.036), and an overall satisfaction rate (p=0.039).There were 4 cases of failure in the closed reduction group. Subsequent open reduction (n=2) and redo closed reduction with intermaxillary fixation (n=2) were performed. Eleven patients in the close reduction group presented persistent malocclusion through objective evaluation. The subsequent treatment included further orthognathic surgery (n=1) and orthodontic treatment (n=7). Three of the patients refused further treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Open reduction for bilateral condylar head fractures presented an overall better functional and radiographic outcome, with higher patient satisfaction if condylar fracture segments were still feasible for rigid fixation.

Three-dimensional assessment of unilateral subcondylar fracture using computed tomography after open reduction

Objective:

The aim was to assess the accuracy of three-dimensional anatomical reductions achieved by open method of treatment in cases of displaced unilateral mandibular subcondylar fractures using preoperative (pre op) and postoperative (post op) computed tomography (CT) scans.

Materials and Methods:

In this prospective study, 10 patients with unilateral sub condylar fractures confirmed by an orthopantomogram were included. A pre op and post op CT after 1 week of surgical procedure was taken in axial, coronal and sagittal plane along with three-dimensional reconstruction. Standard anatomical parameters, which undergo changes due to fractures of the mandibular condyle were measured in pre and post op CT scans in three planes and statistically analysed for the accuracy of the reduction comparing the following variables: (a) Pre op fractured and nonfractured side (b) post op fractured and nonfractured side (c) pre op fractured and post op fractured side. P < 0.05 was considered as significant.

Results:

Three-dimensional anatomical reduction was possible in 9 out of 10 cases (90%). The statistical analysis of each parameter in three variables revealed (P < 0.05) that there was a gross change in the dimensions of the parameters obtained in pre op fractured and nonfractured side. When these parameters were assessed in post op CT for the three variables there was no statistical difference between the post op fractured side and non fractured side. The same parameters were analysed for the three variables in pre op fractured and post op fractured side and found significant statistical difference suggesting a considerable change in the dimensions of the fractured side post operatively.

Conclusion:

The statistical and clinical results in our study emphasised that it is possible to fix the condyle in three-dimensional anatomical positions with open method of treatment and avoid post op degenerative joint changes. CT is the ideal imaging tool and should be used on a regular basis for cases of condylar fractures.

Conservative treatment of bilateral condylar fractures in children: case report and review of the literature

Two children (11 year old) with bilateral condylar fractures associated with symphysis fracture were conservatively treated. Both of them were followed up for about 1 year. A review of 21 cases of bilateral condylar fracture available in the literature revealed the younger the patient, the better the outcome of TMJ function or in radiographic remodeling. However, the longer the time elapsed, the higher the incidence of remodeling deformity and dysfunction. Thus, it must be better that a close follow-up of bilateral condylar fracture in children should be continued until the end of growth period.

Complications of mandibular fracture: study of the treatment methods in calabar, Nigeria

OBJECTIVE

The plethora of techniques available for the treatment of mandibular fractures suggests that there is controversy regarding their definitive outcome. The purpose of this study was to clinically study the complications associated with the different treatment methods of mandibular fractures at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Nigeria.

METHODS

This was a three-year prospective study carried out at the Dental and Maxillofacial Clinic of the hospital. Patients who met the inclusion criteria had their data recorded in a proforma questionnaire.

RESULTS

Out of the 256 patients studied, 17.2% developed complications. Complications were commoner (70.5%) between ages 21 and 50 years. Thirty-five (79.5%) were males while nine (20.5%) were females with a male:female ratio of 4.9:1. Following treatment by closed reduction, conservative and open reduction, 16.6%, 17.2% and 20.7% had complications, respectively. Whereas occlusal derangement was the most common complication, numbness of the cheek and lower lip was recorded following all treatment methods.

CONCLUSION

Although the complications recorded in this patient population were managed during postoperative follow-up period, the methods of treatment available give good results, are cost-effective and patient compliance is good. This suggests that the older methods of treatment of mandibular fractures can still be used with reliability in contemporary dental practice.

Functional outcomes of preauricular underparotid retrograde approach for mandibular condyle fractures

Management of condyle fractures includes a wide spectrum of alternatives including analgesia alone, physiotherapy, intermaxillary fixation, and open reduction and internal fixation. Various approaches have been previously mentioned for the access to the mandibular condyle. The aim of this retrospective clinical study was to evaluate our clinical results on preauricular underparotid retrograde approach for condylar fractures. This retrospective study included 20 condylar fractures in 16 patients who were treated surgically using a preauricular transparotid retrograde approach between 2010 and 2013. Functional outcomes with this method were addressed in light of the results obtained in this clinical series. We suggest this method in the management of condylar fractures.

Prosthetic rehabilitation of a patient with unilateral dislocated condyle fracture after treatment with a mandibular repositioning splint: a clinical report

This clinical report describes the use of a mandibular repositioning splint and the subsequent prosthodontic treatment of a unilateral dislocated condyle fracture for a patient whose injury resulted in significant mandibular deviation and malocclusion. The use of a mandibular repositioning splint considerably reduced the mandibular deviation, and a stable mandibular position was maintained with the definitive prosthesis.

Comparison of Surgical and Nonsurgical Treatment of Bilateral Condylar Fractures Based on Maximal Mouth Opening

This study presents a comparative analysis of the open surgical and nonsurgical treatment of patients with bilateral condylar fractures. Sixty-seven (67) patients were treated, and the completed data on 55 patients were reviewed to compare both therapeutic modalities, which consisted of nonsurgical and surgical treatment in 37 and 18 patients, respectively. In the nonsurgical group, 23 patients (23/37, 62%) had normal mouth opening. Functional success rate was 79% (15/19) and 44% (8/18) in young adult patients (-29yrs) and older patients (30+yrs), respectively, and there was a significant difference of outcome between the two groups. In nonsurgically treated young patients with disorders, bilateral dislocation and existence of concomitant mandibular fractures were commonly observed. In the open surgical group, seven (7/11, 64%) young adult and three (3/7, 43%) older patients gained normal mouth opening, and no significant difference was observed. Additionally, there was no difference between non-surgical and surgical treatment in any category. Patients undergoing rigid fixation benefited from restoring maximum mouth opening, although there was no significant difference between the rigid and non-rigid fixation groups. Based on these findings, nonrigid fixation should be avoided, and rigid fixation might improve outcome in young adult patients with severe fracture pattern, such as bilateral dislocation and concomitant mandibular fracture.

Evaluation of facial nerve following open reduction and internal fixation of subcondylar fracture through retromandibular transparotid approach

The objective of this study was to evaluate any damage to the facial nerve after a retromandibular transparotid approach for open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of a subcondylar fracture. We studied 38 patients with 44 subcondylar fractures (3 bilateral and 38 unilateral) treated by ORIF through a retromandibular transparotid approach. All patients were followed up for 6 months. Postoperative function of the facial nerve was evaluated within 24h of operation, and at 1, 3, and 12 weeks, and 6 months. Variables including type of fracture, degree of mouth opening, postoperative occlusion, lateral excursion of the mandible, and aesthetic outcome were also monitored. Nine of the 44 fractures resulted in transient facial nerve palsy (20%). Branches of the facial nerve that were involved were the buccal (n=7), marginal mandibular (n=2), and zygomatic (n=1). In the group with lateral displacement, 2/15 showed signs of weakness, whereas when the fracture was medially displaced or dislocated 7/23 showed signs of weakness. Of the 9 sites affected, 7 had resolved within 3 months, and the remaining 2 resolved within 6 months. The mean (range) time to recovery of function was 12 weeks (3-6 months). There was no case of permanent nerve palsy. The retromandibular transparotid approach to ORIF does not permanently damage the branches of the facial nerve. Temporary palsy, though common, resolves in 3-6 months. Postoperative occlusion, mouth opening, and lateral excursion of the mandible were within the reference ranges. We had no infections, or fractured plates, or hypertrophic or keloid scars.

The retromandibular transparotid approach for reduction and rigid internal fixation using two locking miniplates in mandibular condylar neck fractures

We evaluated the safety, efficacy, and morbidity associated with the treatment of displaced mandibular condylar neck fractures using a retromandibular transparotid approach to reduce and rigidly fix using two 2.0-mm locking miniplates. Our surgical inclusion criteria were: patient selection of open reduction and fixation, displaced unilateral condylar fractures with derangement of occlusion, and bilateral condylar fractures with an anterior open bite. The study group consisted of 19 patients who underwent surgery for 19 mandibular condylar neck fractures; patients were analyzed prospectively, with more than 6 months of follow-up, and were evaluated in terms of functional results, scar formation, postoperative complications, and stability of fixation. The results showed that functional occlusion identical to the preoperative condition and correct anatomical reduction of the condylar segments in centric occlusion, followed by immediate functional recovery, was achieved in all patients. No patient suffered from any major or permanent complication postoperatively, although there were two cases (11%) of temporary facial nerve palsy, which resolved completely within 3 months. Surgical scars were barely visible. The retromandibular transparotid approach with open reduction and rigid internal fixation for displaced condylar neck fractures of the mandible is a feasible and safe, minimally invasive surgical technique that provides reliable clinical results.

Late reconstruction of condylar neck and head fractures

Condyle fractures are a common injury, but only a few of these injuries require immediate or late reconstruction. The complications that most frequently necessitate condylar reconstruction include proximal segment degeneration, malunion, and ankylosis. Costochondral grafts and total joint prostheses, both stock and custom, remain the most common methods of reconstruction. Reconstruction plates with condylar extensions should only be used temporarily as an unacceptable number cause serious complications. Distraction osteogenesis may have an occasional role in reconstructing the posttraumatic condyle.

Severe open bite due to traumatic condylar fractures treated nonsurgically with implanted miniscrew anchorage

This case report illustrates the use of miniscrews to treat a patient with an open bite caused by mandibular condylar fractures. The patient was 36 years old when she visited our hospital with a chief complaint of difficulty with chewing. She had suffered condylar and maxillary bone fractures in a traffic accident 6 months before her visit. She had an anterior open bite and Angle Class II molar relationships. Her mandibular midline was deviated to the right relative to the maxilla. The cephalometric analysis showed a skeletal Class II relationship. Titanium miniscrews were implanted in the bilateral maxillary buccal areas. The maxillary dentition was retracted and intruded by using elastomeric chains and miniscrews. After this treatment, an Angle Class I molar relationship was achieved, her overjet and overbite became ideal, and a good facial appearance was obtained. The total active orthodontic treatment period was 33 months. Treating an open bite with molar intrusion often leads to counterclockwise rotation of the mandible; however, in this patient, the mandible was moved anteriorly and upward. We believe that this movement was caused by the patient's condylar fractures and the subsequent remodeling. Although there was some relapse, our results suggest that implant anchorage is useful for correcting anterior open bites originating from condylar fractures.

Transoral open reduction with rigid internal fixation for subcondylar fractures of the mandible using a small angulated screwdriver system: is endoscopic assistance necessary?

PURPOSE

Although endoscopically assisted transoral open reduction and internal fixation of condylar mandible fractures is currently a popular technique, the need for it and its benefits remains unclear. This prospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of open reduction and rigid internal fixation of subcondylar fractures of the mandible using a new small angulated screwdriver system without endoscopic assistance.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifteen patients with 15 linear subcondylar fractures were treated using this intraoral approach from June 2007 through March 2010 at the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kagawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Kagawa, Japan. The anatomic reduction of the displaced condylar segments and rigid fixation with 2 2.0-mm locking miniplates were performed using a small angulated screwdriver system, with an average follow-up of 13 months (range, 6 to 30 months).

RESULTS

Correct anatomic reduction of the condylar segments at centric occlusion followed by immediate functional recovery was achieved in all patients. Mean operating time was 50 minutes (range, 35 to 70 minutes) when performed by the consultant surgeon and the residents. In addition, all patients had good temporomandibular joint articular function, with no harmful clinical symptoms or deviation.

CONCLUSIONS

The surgical treatment of linear subcondylar fractures of the mandible can be achieved with an intraoral approach alone, using a small angulated screwdriver system, without endoscopic assistance, offering reliable clinical results and safe and minimally invasive surgery.

Comparative biomechanical evaluation of mono-cortical osteosynthesis systems for condylar fractures using photoelastic stress analysis

Fractures of the condyle account for 20-30% of all mandibular fractures, and are therefore one of the most common facial injuries. Precise evaluation of the mechanical stresses that develop in a fractured mandible is essential, particularly for the testing of systems currently used for stabilisation of the condylar fragment. Photoelastic stress analysis can be used to visualise alterations in the strain that is induced in the mandible by a fracture, and in the osteosynthesis materials used to stabilise it. This method, used on currently used osteosynthesis materials, showed that stabilisation of a subcondylar fracture with a single miniplate does not provide enough stability, whereas the use of two miniplates - properly positioned - offers sufficient stability in all loading conditions. A microplate may be used as a tension-resisting plate with equally good results.

Closed reduction of laterally displaced fracture/dislocation of the mandibular condylar process in a child

This is a unique case of isolated lateral fracture/dislocation of the condylar process in a 3-year-old child injured on an escalator. Immediate closed reduction under general anesthesia successfully restored condylar height and premorbid dental occlusion. Maxillomandibular fixation was not used because mandibular mobilization was encouraged. Clinical follow-up confirmed maintenance of normal dental occlusion and temporomandibular joint function.

Endoscope-assisted transoral reduction and internal fixation versus closed treatment of mandibular condylar process fractures--a prospective double-center study

PURPOSE

The aim of this international AO-study was to compare the functional outcome after open versus closed treatment of mandibular condylar neck fractures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective comparative study with two follow-ups (FU) at 8-12 weeks and 1 year was undertaken in two clinics, which exclusively privileged either surgical or conservative treatment due to different therapeutic agendas. Patients from clinic 1 (ENDO group) received endoscope-assisted transoral open reduction and internal fixation, whereas patients from clinic 2 (CONS group) were treated conservatively without surgery. Patients with unilateral condylar neck fractures showing one or more of the following conditions were included: displacement of the condyle with an inclination >30° and/or severe functional impairment such as malocclusion or open bite, with or without dislocation of the condylar fragment; severe pain upon palpation or movement, and/or vertical shortening of the ascending ramus. High or intracapsular condylar neck fractures were excluded.

RESULTS

75 patients (44 CONS and 31 ENDO patients) with condylar neck fractures were included in this study. The Asymmetric Helkimo Dysfunction Score (A-HDS) was slightly lower in the CONS group than in the ENDO group at the 8-12-week FU, corresponding to better function on the short-term. At the 1-year FU, however, there were slightly better values in the ENDO group. For the Clinical Dysfunction Index (Di) and the Anamnestic Dysfunction Index (Ai), CONS patients had a better outcome than ENDO patients at the 8-12 week FU, ie, a higher proportion of ENDO patients had severe symptoms due to the operative trauma. Yet these symptoms improved by one year, finishing with a significant higher proportion of symptom-free patients in the ENDO group. In addition, these patients had better values for the Index for Occlusion and Articulation Disturbance (Oi) at both FU examinations, ie, the proportion of patients without any occlusal disturbances was significantly higher in the ENDO group. On average, the duration of postoperative maxillo-mandibular fixation (MMF) was 3 times longer for the CONS group than for the ENDO group (33 vs. 11 days).

CONCLUSION

Both treatment options may yield acceptable results for displaced condylar neck fractures. Especially in patients with severe malocclusion directly after trauma, however, endoscope-assisted transoral open reduction and fixation seems to be the appropriate treatment for prevention of occlusal disturbances during FU.

Functional outcomes following surgical treatment of bilateral mandibular condylar fractures

Debate continues regarding unilateral or bilateral treatment for mandibular condylar fractures. This retrospective study evaluates the functional outcomes of bilateral condylar process fractures after surgical intervention. From May 1994 to December 2004, 51 adult patients with bilateral mandibular condylar process fractures were studied. There were 33 cases of bilateral condylar fractures (type I); 12 cases of condylar-subcondylar fractures (type II); and six cases of bilateral subcondylar fractures (type III). All patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation. Four patients had chin deviation, six had malocclusion, three had poor chewing function and eight had limited mouth opening. Type I patients had a significantly higher incidence of limited mouth opening (P=0.039) and associated maxillary fractures (n=12) and psychiatric disease (n=6) which yielded significantly poor functional outcomes. Complications included transient facial paresis (n=4), fracture and loosening of postoperative plates (n=3) and surgical wound infections (n=2). Open reduction with rigid fixation for bilateral condylar fractures provided satisfactory functional outcomes in this study. Concomitant maxillary fractures and underlying psychiatric problems are poor outcome factors. Aggressive rehabilitation in the first 9 months is important for early functional recovery.

Three-dimensional mandibular motion after closed and open reduction of unilateral mandibular condylar process fractures

OBJECTIVE

To detect the changes in 3D mandibular motion after two types of condylar fracture therapies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a 3D motion analyzer, free mandibular border movements were recorded in 21 patients successfully treated for unilateral fractures of the mandibular condylar process (nine patients: open reduction, rigid internal fixation, and functional treatment; 12 patients: closed reduction and functional treatment; follow-up: 6-66 months), and in 25 control subjects.

RESULTS

No differences were found among the groups at maximum mouth opening (MO), protrusion and in lateral excursions. During opening, the patients had a larger maximal deviation to the fractured side than the controls (controls 2.3 mm, open treatment 3.9 mm, closed treatment 4.2 mm; Kruskal-Wallis test, p=0.014; closed treatment vs. controls, p=0.004), with a larger coronal plane angle (controls 2.4°, open treatment 3.6°, closed treatment 4.4°; p=0.016; closed treatment vs. controls, p=0.013). In the closed treatment patients, a longer follow-up was related to increased maximum MO (p=0.04), sagittal plane angle (p=0.03), and reduced lateral mandibular deviation during MO (p=0.03).

CONCLUSION

Mandibular condylar fractures can recover good function; some kinematic variables of mandibular motion were more similar to the norm in the open treatment patients than in closed treatment patients.

Outcomes of open versus closed treatment of mandibular subcondylar fractures: a prospective randomized study

PURPOSE

To compare open reduction and internal fixation with closed treatment and maxillomandibular fixation for the management of subcondylar fractures of the mandible.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty patients with subcondylar fractures of the mandible were evaluated. All fractures were displaced; either angulated between 10 degrees and 35 degrees or the ascending ramus was shortened by more than 2 mm. Clinical and radiographic evaluation was performed 6 months after the trauma. Clinical parameters included mouth opening, protrusion, laterotrusion, deviation on mouth opening, and occlusion. Radiographic parameters included level of the fracture, deviation of the fragment, and shortening of the ascending ramus. Subjective parameters included pain according to a visual analog scale. Nonparametric data were compared for statistical significance with a chi(2) analysis and parametric data with an independent samples t test (P < .05).

RESULTS

Correct anatomical position of the fragments was achieved significantly more accurately in the operative group in contrast to the closed treatment group. Regarding mouth opening/lateral excursion/protrusion, significant (P = .00) differences were observed between both groups (open 39.6/12.5/5.9 mm vs closed 33.5/9.8/4.1 mm). The visual analog scoring revealed significant (P = .00) difference with less pain in the operative treatment group (1.1 open vs 5.2 closed). No statistically significant difference was found between the 2 groups for occlusion (P = .86).

CONCLUSION

Both treatment options for condylar fractures of the mandible yielded acceptable results. However, operative treatment was superior in all objective and subjective functional parameters except occlusion.