Remodelling after conservative treatment of the mandibular condylar fractures in children

ABSTRACT

The management of mandibular condylar fractures in children has long been a matter of controversy. The fracture, if not treated appropriately, may result in complications such as disturbance of mandibular growth and temporomandibular joint ankylosis. They are usually treated nonsurgically, which has been proved to be satisfactory in the long term results. Nineteen children with 25 condylar fractures experienced during their growth period (age at trauma from 10 months to 12 years, mean 7.0 years) were studied. All patients were treated by arch bars and intermaxillary fixation for 7-14 days. They have been evaluated with clinical and radiographic examination. The maximum mouth opening and lateral movement of the mandible were within normal limits. There was no malocclusion or ankylosis. Beginning of remodelling was evident at postoperative 1.3 months. Remodelling of the condyle was good in 21, while partial adjustment occured in the other 4 condyles. These results suggest that the conservative treatment of condylar fractures in growing children results in good functional results and good remodelling of the condyle.