Clinical Studies Of Lag -Screw Osteosynthesis In Condylar Fractures Of The Mandible

ABSTRACT

This study evaluated clinical and radiographic results after open reduction and lag-screw fixation of mandibular condyle fractures. PATIENTS AND Methods: 26 patients had been treated by lag-screw fixation for madibular condyle fracures via submandibular approach and follow up for over 6 months. The lag-screw used in this study was designed by Eckelt. Radiographically, resorption of the condyle head found in 4 cases (15%) and minimal displacement of the condyle head was found in 3 cases (12%). Post-operative infection were not found in all cases. Clinically, All patiens had a stable occlusion and normal mouth opening (over 40mm). TMD problems with crepitus or some discomfort encountered in 4 patients but tolerable to the patients. CONCLUSION: Lag screw fixation can be a good option especially high level condylar fractures, however this procedure must be used in cautiously because of slipping of the fragments and possible to resorption of the fragments.