Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures Research Articles

Comparative Evaluation of Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Retromandibular Transparotid and Transoral Endoscopic-Assisted Approach for Surgical Management of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures.

A prospective randomized comparative study was conducted to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of the retromandibular transparotid (RMT) approach with endoscopic-assisted transoral (ENDO) approach used for open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of adult mandibular subcondylar fractures. To evaluate and compare the primary functional outcome using the Helkimo's dysfunction index, the surgical ease, the incidence of facial nerve weakness, the cosmetic outcomes and the number of complications following ORIF of mandibular subcodylar fractures using the RMT and ENDO approaches. In this prospective study, 20 patients with unilateral/bilateral subcondylay fractures requiring ORIF were recruited between 2017 and 2018. Patients were randomly divided into RMT and ENDO group, 10 patients in each. Clinical and radiological assessment was done preoperatively and in postoperative period it was done at different intervals over the period of 6 months. The intraoperative parameter time taken during surgery was correlated for association with the time elasped since day of trauma and with the fracture severity. Similarly, the presence of multiple fractures of the mandible and postoperative occlusion were evaluated for the association. Comparable functional results were noted in both groups without any statistical significance. ORIF in ENDO group proved to be more time-consuming. For the RMT group, visible scars were rated best or close to best at the end of 6 months but a greater number of facial nerve injuries were reported in the RMT group. Superiority of one approach over others cannot be established since the outcomes were not statistically different. However, the ENDO approach appears to be safer. Therefore, there is a need for the development of innovative armamentarium which would improve the dexterity and ease of the surgeon and hence the total time taken for this minimally invasive approach for the management of subcondylar fracture.

Assessment of biomechanical properties of specially-designed miniplate patterns in a mandibular subcondylar fracture model with finite element analysis and a servohydraulic testing unit.

The aim of our study was to compare the biomechanical stability of three different systems used to fix mandibular condylar fractures on synthetic polyurethane mandibles using a servohydraulic testing unit and finite element analysis (FEA). We measured the resistance to displacement loads causing 1.75 and 3.5mm displacements of the fragments, and the maximum resistance values before failure of the fixation system in 30 condylar necks of 15 polyurethane mandible models. The three subgroups investigated were arranged as a triangular plate (n=10), a quadrangular plate (n=10), and a straight miniplate (n=10). The most successful fixation pattern was achieved with two straight four-hole miniplates. However, the triangular plate can easily be applied as a second option by an endoscopic approach. The rectangular plates showed no success in mandibular condylar fractures.

Use of an occlusal splint and intraoperative imaging with an intraoral approach in the management of mandibular subcondylar fractures

IntroductionTo evaluate the feasibility of safely managing subcondylar fractures using an original surgical procedure combining an intraoral approach, the use of a custom-made occlusal overlay splint, and intraoperative imaging. Materials and methodsCondylar fragment was freed from surrounding soft tissues, was laterally exposed to the ramus, and a miniplate was fixed in place for osteosynthesis. An overlay splint maintaining the dental occlusion was used to facilitate reduction and stabilization during fixation. Intraoperative monitoring by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed before completing the fixation. ResultsBetween November 2018 and June 2019, 10 patients were treated using this procedure. The median length of the proximal condylar fragment was 29 mm (range 24–39 min). Five patients had an associated mandibular fracture. The median duration of the condylar fracture surgery was 54.5 min (range 38–79 min). All patients had satisfactory reduction and osteosynthesis with no complications. ConclusionIt is feasible to safely manage subcondylar fractures with this surgical procedure that could facilitate open reduction using intraoral approaches. Occlusal splints maintain downward pressure on the rami bilaterally and symmetrically, helping to anatomically reposition condylar process fractures. Intraoperative imaging is used to monitor this step.

Indications for transoral endoscopic-assisted methods in condylar process fractures

Objective: Endoscopic-assisted mandibular subcondylar fracture repair is a different way of performing open reduction internal fixation and also includes surgical equipment and manipulations other than those used in the classical methods. The criteria for patient selection should be different from that of the classical methods. Materials and Methods: Between April 2012 and June 2017, treatment protocols which were applied to 56 patients with mandibular subcondylar fracture were evaluated retrospectively. The first step of this study was to evaluate why patients with mandibular subcondylar fractures were not operated endoscopically. In 34 patients, methods other than endoscopic methods were used. Characteristics of these patients and fractures were demonstrated. Results: Twenty-four patients were followed conservatively. Twenty-two patients were treated with transoral endoscopic method while ten patients were treated with the conventional open surgery. This open surgical treatment was reported by determined the patient records for why the endoscopic method was not preferred. The determined criteria were; condyle with excessive medial deviation, patient age, fracture type, general condition/anesthesia risk, and time of injury. Conclusion: In accordance with clinical experience, some criteria have been defined for patient selection preoperatively in mandibular subcondylar fractures. It believes that with the right patient selection, it will be possible to achieve better results and reduce complications.

Longitudinal study of risk for facial nerve injury in mandibular condyle fracture surgery: marginal mandibular branch-traversing classification of percutaneous approaches.

This study aimed to longitudinally assess the risk of facial nerve injury (FNI) in the surgical repair of mandibular condylar neck and subcondylar fractures (CN/SCFs) and to explore its predictors. In a retrospective cohort study, the outcome was defined as FNI at 1week and 1, 3, and 6months postoperatively. Potential predictors included age, sex, etiology, fracture site and pattern (dislocation/non-dislocation), concomitant facial fractures, interval to surgery, surgeons' experience, plate types, and the marginal mandibular branch-traversing approach (deep/superficial group). We employed generalized estimating equations (GEEs) for repeated measurements throughout the 6-month follow-up period. Among 102 patients with 114 fractures, 27 patients (26.5%) developed FNI within 1week. Prolonged FNI (≥ 1month) occurred in 19 (19.2%) of 99 patients. Multivariate GEE analyses revealed that deep surgical approaches (i.e., traditional submandibular and retroparotid approaches; odds ratio [OR], 18.90; p = 0.011), fractures with dislocation (OR, 3.60; p = 0.025), and female gender (OR, 2.71; p = 0.040) were independently associated with the overall FNI risk. Additionally, the deep approaches (OR, 15.91; p = 0.014) and female gender (OR, 3.41; p = 0.035) were correlated with a prolonged FNI risk. Sensitivity analyses for the outcomes identified the same predictors. The predictors longitudinally associated with FNI in CN/SCF surgeries included a deep MMB-traversing approach, dislocated fracture, and female gender. The superficial surgical approaches (i.e., transparotid, transmasseteric anteroparotid, and high perimandibular approaches) should be adopted for CN/SCF treatment to minimize postoperative morbidity, especially for female patients with dislocated condyles.

CRB modification to retromandibular approach for management of subcondylar fractures.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of CRB modification of retromandibular approach to gain surgical access for open reduction and internal fixation of mandibular subcondylar fractures. A total number of 264 sustained extra-capsular subcondylar fractures from 230 patients were selected for the study over the period of 5 years. Evaluation of intraoperative accessibility, postoperative facial nerve function, postoperative complications and scar was carried out. All the patients were treated using CRB Curvilinear approach. Patient follow up was recorded for 1 year on a regular interval basis. Symptoms of postoperative facial nerve injury were seen in 2 patients which recovered with time, postoperative complications were not encountered in any case and minimum scar mark hidden in the cervical skin crease. Hence open reduction and internal fixation for Subcondylar fracture of mandible by using the CRB modification of retromandibular approach is a good alternative for other conventional approaches in having ease of access, ease of fixation, reduced incidences of injury to facial nerve and its branches with good aesthetic outcome.

Biomechanical Loading Comparison between Titanium and Unsintered Hydroxyapatite/Poly-L-Lactide Plate System for Fixation of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures.

Osteosynthesis absorbable materials made of uncalcined and unsintered hydroxyapatite (u-HA) particles, poly-l-lactide (PLLA), and u-HA/PLLA are bioresorbable, and these plate systems have feasible bioactive osteoconductive capacities. However, their strength and stability for fixation in mandibular subcondylar fractures remain unclear. This in vitro study aimed to assess the biomechanical strength of u-HA/PLLA bioresorbable plate systems after internal fixation of mandibular subcondylar fractures. Tensile and shear strength were measured for each u-HA/PLLA and titanium plate system. To evaluate biomechanical behavior, 20 hemimandible replicas were divided into 10 groups, each comprising a titanium plate and a bioresorbable plate. A linear load was applied anteroposteriorly and lateromedially to each group to simulate the muscular forces in mandibular condylar fractures. All samples were analyzed for each displacement load and the displacement obtained by the maximum load. Tensile and shear strength of the u-HA/PLLA plate were each approximately 45% of those of the titanium plates. Mechanical resistance was worst in the u-HA/PLLA plate initially loaded anteroposteriorly. Titanium plates showed the best mechanical resistance during lateromedial loading. Notably, both plates showed similar resistance when a lateromedially load was applied. In the biomechanical evaluation of mandibular condylar fracture treatment, the u-HA/PLLA plates had sufficiently high resistance in the two-plate fixation method.

Endoscopic-assisted treatment of mandibular subcondylar fractures: training difficulty

Background: The current treatment option for sub condylar fractures are the rigid fixation, one of the most fear complications are the damage on the facial nerve. In the search of a way for a safer surgery we try Endoscopic treatment as a different way of performing open reduction and internal fixation.

Evaluation of TMJ Functions after conservative Treatment of Unilateral Subcondylar Fracture

Aim: It is to assess TMJ functions after conservative treatment of unilateral subcondylar fractures. Subjects and Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 20 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 radiographs. Results: At 12-month follow-up, there was minimal pain in the temporomandibular joint region, there was an improvement in the perceived occlusion, without limited mouth opening. 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, mean ramus height pretreatment and 12 months post -treatment were 1.51+0.45 and 1.47+0.48, respectively. Conclusion: 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.

Which fixation methods are better between three-dimensional anatomical plate and two miniplates for the mandibular subcondylar fracture open treatment?

PurposeTo compare the clinical outcomes of a single three-dimensional (3-D) anatomical plate versus two conventional straight miniplates for the open treatment of mandibular subcondylar fractures. MethodsThis retrospective clinical study included patients with mandibular subcondylar fractures treated by the retromandibular transparotid approach using a 3-D plate or two straight miniplates. Outcome variables included preoperative conditions of patients and fractures, extent of postoperative bone healing, and incidence of complications. Other variables included age, sex, fracture site, and follow-up duration. Variables were evaluated using descriptive statistics and compared between groups. ResultsTwenty-eight fractures were analyzed: 13 fractures using 3-D plate and 15 fractures using two straight miniplates. None of the assessed variables showed significant differences between the two groups (p < 0.05). Unfortunately, in the 3-D plate group, reoperation was necessary for nonunion owing to plate breakage in one case with a bone defect around the fracture. ConclusionThe 3-D plate and two straight miniplates were equally effective for the surgical management of mandibular subcondylar fractures. Although a 3-D plate is sufficient for a typical simple fracture, in cases with a bone defect around the fracture, selection of the plate fixation method should be carefully considered.

Surgical Management of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures Under Local Anesthesia: A Proposed Protocol

The optimal treatment for adult mandibular condylar fractures (MCFs) has largely shifted in favor of open reduction and rigid internal fixation. However, a sizeable portion of these injuries are still being treated in a closed manner based on old literature, convenience, results deemed acceptable, and lesser associated morbidity. Most MCFs with multiple associated facial traumas are appropriately treated under general anesthesia (GA). However, some selected isolated MCFs or those with minimal associated mandibular or low midfacial fractures can be treated optimally with patients under local anesthesia following a protocol presented in this article, thus expediting and simplifying their management. The purpose of this study was to develop a safe, sound, effective protocol for routine surgical management of mandibular subcondylar fractures under local anesthesia. We carried out a prospective clinical study to assess the feasibility of operating on MCFs with patients under local anesthesia. Seven patients with MCFs and other associated facial fractures underwent surgery after careful case selection following our proposed protocol. The outcome variables were 1) duration of the procedure, 2) intraoperative pain assessed by a visual analog scale, 3) fracture reduction assessed by measuring the preoperative and postoperative average fracture gap, 4) presence of malocclusion preoperatively and postoperatively, 5) deviation on mouth opening, and 6) maximal mouth opening. The mean duration of the procedure was 35.14minutes, and the mean rating of intraoperative pain or discomfort was 0.57 as reported on the visual analog scale by the patients. Mean mouth opening improved from 17.1 to 40.5mm, whereas deviation on opening improved from 4.4 to 0.28mm. The average fracture gap was reduced from 6.32 to 0.97mm. The presented protocol is a straightforward, efficient, safe, cost-effective tool for operating on MCFs, avoiding GA with its attendant risks and complications, that can be used routinely, as well as in patients for whom GA is deemed unsuitable.

Mandibular subcondylar fracture accessibility with transparotid approach by rhytidectomy and modified Risdon approach: An anatomical comparative study

PurposeThe purpose of our anatomical study was to compare the accessibility of the area at the level of the neck of the condyle and the condylar head by two different approaches: the modified Risdon approach and a transparotid approach by rhytidectomy (TPAR). MethodsAn anatomical study was performed on 12 heads of cadavers preserved with a solution rich in glycerin and ethanol, but very low in formalin. A modified Risdon approach and a TPAR were each performed on a hemiface of the same head. The bone surface was rendered digitally accessible on an anatomical diagram using Image J software. The software was used to determine a concordance score between the area of accessibility and the area of interest necessary for osteosynthesis of a high subcondylar fracture. This score was presented as a numerical scale from 0 to 100. We measured the total number of pixels in our area of interest and assigned it a score of 100. We then compared the area of accessibility with the area of interest necessary for osteosynthesis of a high subcondylar fracture. ResultsUsing the modified Risdon approach, an average score of 55.88 (SD = 18.96) was found, or 55.88% of the accessible area of interest. Using TPAR, we found a score of 91.05 (SD = 7.95) or 91.05% of the accessible area of interest. This difference in score between the two techniques was significantly different (p < 0.001), taking into account intra-hemiface and intra-individual correlation. ConclusionTPAR seems to be more effective in treating high condylar process fractures of the mandible.

Comparison of two L shaped Plate on Plate Versus Single Conventional L Miniplate in Fixation of Subcondylar Mandibular Fractures.

To compare and evaluate treatment outcome and postoperative complications in subcondylar fractures of mandible-single L shape plate versus two L shape plate-using plate on plate technique. The clinical trial had a total of ten patients (ten unilateral subcondylar fracture sites), which were divided randomly into two groups of five each. Group I patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation with single L shaped miniplate and Group II ORIF was done with two L shaped miniplates by plate on plate technique. Both the groups showed comparable results in terms of postoperative complications. Few cases in Group I presented with minor occlusal discrepancy which was easily corrected with transitional inter-maxillary fixation(IMF) for 1week, and none of the Group II cases required postoperative IMF, but stability in Group II was better than Group I. The results of this trial suggested that the treatment of mandibular condylar fractures with 2 (2-D) plates placed one over the other is better suited than conventionally practiced single-plate fixation. Increased 3-dimensional stability, low morbidity and infection rates are the advantages offered by 2-plate technique of ours.

Transmasseteric Anterior Parotid Approach for Treatment of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures.

This study demonstrated the application of transmasseteric anterior parotid approach for open reduction of mandibular subcondylar fractures depending on the basis of the anatomical study of the temporomandibular joint and parotid gland area. The anatomical study was performed on 5 Chinese adult cadavers fixed by 10% formalin. The temporomandibular joints and parotid regions were studied. In the clinical study, 26 patients with mandibular subcondylar fractures were recruited between July 2014 and December 2017. All 26 patients with mandibular subcondylar fractures received satisfactory occlusions and normal mouth opening: no postoperative facial paralysis occurred in these patients. It is crucial to know the anatomy of both temporomandibular joint and parotid region for reducing significantly the surgical trauma and complications. Transmasseteric anterior parotid approach is a feasible approach for the surgical treatment of the mandibular subcondylar fractures. This method can provide adequate exposure, minimal facial nerve injury, open reduction easily, and inconspicuous scarring.

Finite Element Analysis of Three Patterns Of Internal Fixation of the Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures (Comparative Study)

Aim: The aim of our study is to compare three plating techniques (single 2.3 plate, two mini-plates and rhomboid plate) biomechanically, and to conclude which one is the most stable in the treatment of subcondylar fractures.Materials and methods: 3D model of human mandible was constructed on work bench solid works program and manipulated to mimic true subcondylar fracture with proximal and distal parts fully separated, three designs of plating techniques was constructed and wrapped on the mandible model, the final three models was exported to FEM software as solid models with masticatory muscles molded bilaterally in addition to contralateral molar clenching task, linear elastic solution was constructed for each model and results was assigned according to von misses stresses upon hardware, jaw bone and total model deformation in each configuration..Result: Double plating 2.0 design showed optimal results compared to rhombic plate and single 2.3 plates.Conclusion: Double plating 2.0 design is the gold standard and the best method of fixation for tha mandibular subcondylar fractures provided that available space is enough for the application of the two plates.

A Comparative Evaluation of Closed and Open Treatment in the Management of Unilateral Displaced Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures: A Prospective Randomized Study.

The aim of the study is to evaluate closed and open treatment in the management of unilateral displaced mandibular subcondylar fractures. Twenty patients with unilateral subcondylar fractures of the mandible were evaluated with degree of displacement of more than 20 degrees and ramal height shortening of more than 10 mm. They were informed of the need for 6-month follow-up. Patients were thoroughly informed, explaining the possible advantages and disadvantages of the open and closed treatment options. Radiographic parameters included the level of fracture, deviation of fragment, and ramal height shortening. Correct anatomical reduction is achieved by open treatment as compared with closed treatment. Regarding pain, mouth opening, and lateral excursion movement, statistically significant difference was found in both groups ( p < 0.01). In radiographic assessment of ramal height shortening and fracture displacement, statistically significant difference was found ( p < 0.01). And no significant complication is found in both treatment groups. The results of this study favor the open treatment for the management of displaced subcondylar fractures. However, the treatment results are also acceptable for closed group.

Endoscopic-Assisted Intraoral Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures: Initial Experiences from a Tertiary-Care Maxillofacial Center in India.

Management of condylar fractures is a highly controversial and debatable area. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using an extraoral approach has certain benefits over the nonsurgical treatment. Risk of damage to the facial nerve and an extraoral scar remains constant deterrents. An endoscopic-assisted ORIF offers an intraoral approach, thus eliminating consequences such as scarring. Though this technique offers unparalleled advantages, it is associated with a steep learning curve. Surgical results improve only with patience and experience. Patients with condylar fractures reported to SDM Craniofacial Unit, Dharwad, India, from 2013 to 2015 are included. Patients were treated with endoscopic-assisted ORIF and were evaluated for functional outcomes that included occlusion, maximal interincisal opening, and deviation of mouth and complications such as facial nerve pareses, postsurgical infection, and morbidity. Fifteen patients included in the study: 4 left sided and 11 right sided fractures. Nine patients had associated other mandibular fracture. Mean age of the patients was 28.2 years. Mean mouth opening at the end of 1 week, 6 weeks, and 6 months was 32.6, 37.8, and 40.5 mm, respectively. Transient facial nerve pareses were noted in one patient, and an extraoral draining sinus was noted in another. Endoscopic-assisted ORIF has a definite scope in management of condylar fractures. Results are more predictable with appropriate case selection due to a steep learning curve and intraoperative technical challenges. An initial experience in ORIF using extraoral approaches would greatly benefit a surgeon in utilizing this novel and alternate tool.

Treatment of intractable parotid sialocele occurred after open reduction-fixation of mandibular subcondylar fracture.

A sialocele is a subcutaneous cavity containing saliva, most often caused by facial trauma or iatrogenic complications. In subcondylar fractures, most surgeons are conscious of facial nerve injury; however, they usually pay little attention to the parotid duct injury. We report the case of a 41-year-old man with a sialocele, approximately 5×3 cm in size, which developed 1 week after subcondylar fracture reduction. The sialocele became progressively enlarged despite conservative management. Computed tomography showed a thin-walled cyst between the body and tail of the parotid gland. Fluid leakage outside the cyst was noted where the skin was thin. Sialography showed a cutting edge of the inferior interlobular major duct before forming the common major duct that seemed to be injured during the subcondylar fracture reduction process. We decided on prompt surgical treatment, and the sialocele was completely excised. A duct from the parotid tail, secreting salivary secretion into the cyst, was ligated. Botulinum toxin was administrated to block the salivary secretion and preventing recurrence. Treatment was successful. In addition, we found that parotid major ducts are enveloped by the deep lobe and extensive dissection during the subcondylar fracture reduction may cause parotid major duct injury.

Open reduction and Internal fixation of mandibular subcondylar fractures with quadrangular plate - A Case Report

Mandibular condylar fractures are the most commonly encountered mandibular fractures, being 17.5–52% of all mandibular fractures. The most common unilateral fracture is subcondylar, and the most common bilateral fracture is of the condylar heads, mostly caused by direct trauma, but may also be due to indirect forces. Treatment of condylar fractures depends on physical and imaging evidence of the fracture, extent of injury (whether unilateral or bilateral), the level of fracture, the degree of displacement and dislocation, the size and position of the fractured condylar segment, and the dental malocclusion.

Pseudoaneurysm of the internal maxillary artery secondary to subcondylar fracture: case report and literature review

Pseudoaneurysms are an uncommon complication of mandibular condylar-subcondylar fractures; however, if present, their recognition and management is mandatory to avoid life-threatening situations. The authors report a case of internal maxillary artery pseudoaneurysm rupture that occurred after an open reduction and internal fixation of a mandibular subcondylar fracture, along with a review of the literature.