Application of Le Fort I Osteotomy for Post-traumatic Malocclusion Secondary to Condylar Fractures in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

The condylar region is a common site of mandibular fractures, and inadequate treatment of condylar fractures causes an anterior open bite. This malocclusion reduces the quality of life and requires surgical intervention in some cases. However, in elderly patients with a relevant history, the treatment method should be minimally invasive and safe. Here we report a rare case on the application of Le Fort I osteotomy for post-traumatic malocclusion secondary to condylar fractures in an elderly patient. A 76-year-old man with a medical history of a cerebral infarction and diabetes mellitus was referred to our department with the chief complaint of malocclusion. The diagnosis was post-traumatic malocclusion mainly secondary to condylar fractures. Le Fort I osteotomy was performed to re-establish the occlusion. The postoperative course was uneventful and normal occlusion and good mandibular mobility was achieved. The course of this patient provides two important suggestions. First, Le Fort I osteotomy is effective in improving post-traumatic malocclusion secondary to condylar fractures. Second, this method is minimally invasive and safe for treatment of elderly patients. This case report highlights the usefulness of Le Fort I osteotomy for post-traumatic malocclusion secondary to condylar fractures in elderly patients.

Keywords

• mandibular fractures
• minimally invasive surgery
• open bite