Facial nerve preservation in transmasseteric antero-parotid approach for open reduction and internal fixation of mandibular subcondylar fracture

Abstract

Objective: Mandibular condylar fracture has an incidence rate between 14 and 48% of all mandibular fractures. Rigid fixation along with open reduction internal fixation is so far the most successful method to ensure the mandible stays in its natural anatomy. Facial nerve injury is the most feared complication for open reduction methods. We aimed to explain the surgical method using transmasseteric antero-parotid approach in mandibular condylar fractures, through which the buccal branch of the facial nerve is explored and maintained. Material and Methods: Since April 2015 to February 2018, the 12 patients (age range 19-42 years) with 15 fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation with transmasseteric antero-parotid approach. There were 9 male and 3 female patients. All patients were reviewed 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months and 6 months after surgery. The clinical follow-up examinations included dental occlusion, maximum mouth opening (interincisal distance), weakness of the facial nerve, postoperatively complications (hematoma, infection,fistula,seroma) and salivary leak. Results: Infection, hematoma, fistula or seroma complications were not observed in any of our cases. The postoperative occlusal relationship was well restored in 11 patients. One patient with bilateral subcondylar fracture had unsatisfactory dental occlusion with anterior open bite. There was no permanent facial nerve palsy. All patients were satisfied with results. Conclusion: In mandibular condylar and subcondylar fractures, the transmasseteric antero-parotid approach is a reliable method that can ensure sufficient exposure and osteosynthesis.

Keywords

• facial nerve
• mandibular fracture
• open reduction
• internal fixation