Non-surgical treatment of condylar fractures in adults: a retrospective analysis.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to investigate the results of non-surgical treatment of condylar fractures in a group of 60 patients with 71 condylar fractures, in order to establish a protocol to select patients for surgical treatment of condylar fractures.


METHODS
Out of a group of 91 patients treated in a non-surgical fashion, 60 patients with a total of 71 condylar fractures responded to the request for follow-up.


METHODS
Retrospective study, including clinical analysis of occlusion, asymmetry at rest and during mouth opening, maximum interincisal distance, signs of TMJ-dysfunction and analysis of radiographic data, i.e. shortening of the ascending ramus as measured on sequential orthopantomograms.


RESULTS
There were five patients (8%) with an unacceptable malocclusion of which one also had considerably limited mouth opening. Fifty-five patients (92%) had none or only minor signs of TMJ-dysfunction not requiring further treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Only in selected patients with shortening of the ascending ramus of 8mm or more and/or considerable displacement of the condylar fragment, surgical repositioning and rigid internal fixation should be considered.
Smets
Luc M H
LM
Department of Oral and Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Van Damme
Philip A
PA
Stoelinga
Paul J W
PJ
D000328:Adult; D005146:Facial Asymmetry / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D019248:Jaw Fixation Techniques; D008297:Male; D008310:Malocclusion / Q000209:etiology; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000293:injuries*; D008337:Mandibular Fractures / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000293:injuries; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D016896:Treatment Outcome