ABSTRACT
Purpose: This paper retrospectively analyses the functional outcomes and complications associated with pre-auricular transparotid approach for the management of mandibular condylar fractures. Material and Methodology: The retrospective data of 82 condylar fractures were analysing in 73 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation with pre-auricular transparotid approach. Evaluation of post-operative complications and the post-operative occlusion status, maximal inter-incise opening, adequacy of reduction and stability of fixation were assessed clinically and radiographically. Results: The exposure of fracture segment was adequate in all the cases, and fixation was easy with 2 mm delta miniplate. Transient facial nerve palsy occurred in 2 patients (2.43%). 1 patient developed sialocele which was managed conservatively. There were slight occlusal discrepancies in 10 patients at the end of 1-week follow-up which was corrected with guiding elastics at the end of 1-month follow-up. The reduction was adequate, and fixation was stable. The functional outcomes were satisfactory in term of mouth-opening and range of motion. Conclusion: The pre-auricular transparotid approach provides direct access to the fracture site resulting in less retraction of the tissue containing facial nerve and also less amount of periosteal stripping is required, thus it maintains good vascularity to the fracture segments. It provides direct visualization of the fracture without much retraction of the tissue containing facial nerve branches. It allows better fixation of the fracture with very less complication which results in good functional outcomes.
