Surgical approaches to mandibular condylar fractures: a review

The estimates of mandibular condyle fracture incidence lack consensus, as these fractures are frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed, resulting in adverse effects. The purpose of this article is to review the anatomy of the mandibular condyle and the surgical approaches currently available.

Surgical treatment of mandibular condyle fractures remains controversial, due to the indications and difficulty with the associated vital structures. To aid in selecting the appropriate approach, the authors present a review of the mandibular anatomy and the approaches utilized, as reported in the literature and observed in the clinical practice of the authors.

In selecting the approach, the knowledge of the mandibular anatomy is vitally important. A survey found that the preauricular, submandibular, and intraoral approaches (in that order) were preferred. When treating the fractured mandibular condyle with open reduction and internal fixation, a thorough knowledge of the anatomy of vital structures, exercise of care, and careful dissection through the soft tissues will reduce the risk for morbidity.