Treatment of Intracapsular Condylar Fractures With Resorbable Pins

Abstract

The surgical treatment of intracapsular condylar fractures (ICFs) of the mandible is complex. Type A and B fractures (classified by Neff et al1 and others), in particular, are difficult to treat. These fracture types are characterized by laterocranial to mediocaudal fracture lines with ventromedial dislocation of the fragments. The Axhausen2 and Bockenheimer3 retroauricular approaches or the Rasse4 and preauricular approach are usually performed. The complications associated with these surgical approaches include facial nerve injury, impaired circulation in the ear, bleeding, and scarring.