Management and Complications of Condylar Fractures

Abstract

Mandibular condylar fractures are frequently encountered maxillofacial traumatic injuries, representing a significant proportion of all fractures of the lower jaw. They are more common in young males and are typically caused by trauma to the face or jaw. The diagnosis begins with a thorough medical and dental history, followed by a clinical examination and radiographic imaging. With both surgical and nonsurgical methods available, there are differences in opinion regarding condylar fracture repair. Surgical options include open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF), percutaneous reduction and internal fixation (PRIF), arthroscopy-assisted reduction and internal fixation (ARIF), and endoscopic-assisted reduction and internal fixation (ERIF). Non-surgical options include closed reduction, immobilization, and functional therapy. Complications can occur with both surgical and non-surgical approaches, and the timing of treatment should be based on the severity and complexity of the fracture, as well as the patient's overall health and individual circumstances. The longterm outcomes of mandibular condylar fracture management are generally favorable, but certain factors can influence the prognosis. Further research is needed to better understand how to optimally manage these injuries and improve clinical and surgical outcomes.