[Unilateral hyperplasia of the TMJ condyle]

Based on 8 case reports, the clinical features, etiology and therapy of unilateral condylo-mandibular hyperplasia are discussed. It is assumed that the underlying cause of this clinical picture is traumatic damage to the articular cartilage. According to our findings a distinction can be made between condylar hyperplasia and condylo-mandibular hyperplasia depending on the type of trauma and whether this damage occurs prior to or after completion of mandibular growth. Resection of the affected condyle is the treatment of choice. Immediate reconstruction of the joint using autogenous material (costal cartilage, iliac crest grafts) is recommended. In those cases of condylo-mandibular hyperplasia where esthetic impairment is only slight and the occlusion is left intact, the indication for surgery must be carefully discussed with the patient.