Evaluation of efficacy 3Dimensional 4-hole trapezoid condyle plate for treatment of base of condyle fracture.

Abstract

The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of open reduction and internal fixation of the base of condyle using a 3D 4-hole trapezoid condyle plate (4-HTCP). A group of 25 subjects of an age range of 21-52 years (mean 32.7 ± 8.7 years) were treated of which, 7(28%) were female and 18 (72%), were male. All the patients were examined according to standard protocol. A retromandibular approach was used in all the patients. The time taken for operating on the condyle alone was recorded it was between 30 minutes to one hour in 5 (20%) patients, between one-two hours in 19 (76%) patients and greater than two hours in 1 (4%) patient. Time taken from reduction of fracture to placement of the last screw was recorded. In 15 (60%) patients the time taken was less than ten minutes, in 10 (40%) patients the time taken ranged from 10-15 minutes. 6 (24%) patients needed additional exposure to facilitate the procedure. Postoperatively all the patients were followed up for a minimum of 9 months and a maximum of 30 months (mean 19.5 ± 5.87 months). The range of mandibular movements was satisfactory. The maximum incisal opening was in the range of 25-37 mm (mean- 31.4 ± 3.38 mm)on the first post-operative day. 31.4 ± 3.4 mm 6 weeks postoperatively, 43.8 ± 4.3 mm 3 months postoperatively, 46.7 ± 2.9 mm 6 months postoperatively and 49.7 ± 4.5 mm 9 months postoperatively. Taking into consideration the transient hypofunction of the facial nerve (8%) and TMJ disorder (8%) the aggregate complication rate in our study was 16%. Our study concludes that 4HTCP is a reliable and rigid choice of osteosynthesis for the base of condyle fractures.