Long-term outcome in the treatment of mandibular condylar fractures

Background. Fractures of the condylar process of the mandible, whether isolated or coexisting with other injuries, are often difficult to manage. Treatment outcome in patients with mechanical injuries of the temporomandibular joints and fractures of mandibular condylar process, which is an element of this joint, depends mostly when and how treatment is initiated. The goal of our study was to assess functional abnormalities in patients following fractures of the condylar process of the mandible in relation to the treatment method used. Material and methods. We analyzed patient documentation and the results of follow-up examinations of 147 patients hospitalized for fractures of the condylar process. This material included both isolated fractures of the condylar process and those accompanied by fractures of the body of the mandible. All mandibular body fractures were managed by means of multiplate osteosynthesis. Fractures of the condylar process were treated in a conservative-orthopedic manner or surgically, depending on the degree of shortening of the mandibular ramus. Anamnesis regarding pain and a functional examination of mandibular kinetics and audible effects gave a basis for assessing the function of temporomandibular joints following treatment. The Helkimo Dysfunction Index was used to assess changes in masticatory function and disorders in the temporomandibular joint. Results. Functional disturbances of the temporomandibular were observed in 38.1% of the examined patients. The most frequently observed symptoms of dysfunction were periodic pain and crackles on mandibular abduction, subluxation, deviation of the mandible, and slight limitation of jaw opening. The intensity depended mainly on when rehabilitation was commenced, and to a less degree on the type of treatment used. No joint dysfunctions were observed in patients of developmental age who sustained isolated condylar process fractures.