Classification and Management of Mandibular Condyle Fractures in a Tertiary Health Center

Abstract

Background: Condyle fractures are not common but could lead to detrimental effects of growth disturbance of the mandible, ankylosis of temporomandibular joint and facial asymmetry especially in children, if not promptly and adequately managed, the aim of this study was to document our experience in the management of mandibular condyle fractures. Method: The fractures were classified based on the age of the patient, unilateral/bilateral, location on the condyle, presence of displacement and dislocation, for those displaced, whether there was medial or lateral overlap, and features presented. Treatment done for each patient was documented. Both clinical and radiological assessments were done to ascertain the outcome of treatment. Result: 11 patients presented with 14 condyle fractures, 3 patients with bi lateral and 8 with unilateral condyle fractures out of which 5 cases were on the right side. Age range of patients was between 13 and 44 years with a mean (SD) of 25.3 (10.7) years. Nine (81.8%) of the patients were males and 2 (18.2%) were females. Eight (72.7%) of the patients with condyle fracture had associated fractures affecting other sites of the mandible while 3 (27.3%) patients had isolated condyle fractures. Intracapusular fractures recorded were 2 (14.2%), while extracapsular accounted for 12 (85.8%) cases. Conservative treatment was not applied in any patient, 9 (81.8%) patients had IMF and 2 (18.2%) patients had ORIF. Conclusion: Most fractures of the condyle were extracapsular and, closed surgical treatment (IMF) was very useful to manage most of the cases.