The Treatment of Mandibular Condylar Fractures Using an Internal Distraction Device during a 7-year Period

Abstract

Objectives: Mandibular condylar fractures are common, accounting for approximately 25%-50% of all mandibular fractures. However, the optimal therapeutic method remains controversial. We have used an internal distraction device for treating mandibular condylar fractures for the past 7 years. The aim of this study was to analyze our clinical outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical charts of 62 patients with mandibular condylar fractures (84 joints) treated by internal distraction device fixation from April 2015 to June 2022 at our hospital. Results: The patients were 34 males and 28 females (mean age of 49.7 years at surgery). At 3 months postoperatively, the mean mouth opening width was 42.3 mm. Postoperative complications included temporary facial nerve paralysis of a temporal branch (6 patients) and breakage of the device during attachment (22 patients, 24 joints). In all cases in which the device was broken, it was removed within a few weeks, and satisfactory results in terms of mouth opening were obtained. Conclusions: This method is recommended as a treatment option for mandibular condylar fractures because of its simplicity and satisfactory results compared with other methods.

Keywords

• mandibular condylar fracture
• internal distraction device
• open reduction and internal fixation
• facial nerve paralysis