Computer-assisted virtual technology in intracapsular condylar fracture with two resorbable long-screws

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Medical Imaging Technology

Background:

• Intracapsular condylar fractures (ICF) present complex treatment challenges.
• Accurate preoperative planning is crucial for successful fracture reduction and fixation.
• Advancements in virtual surgical planning offer potential improvements in managing mandibular fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of using computer-assisted virtual technology and two resorbable screws for treating intracapsular condylar fractures (ICF).
• To assess the accuracy of virtual repositioning compared to intraoperative findings.
• To determine the functional and anatomical outcomes following this minimally invasive fixation method.

Main Methods:

• Nineteen patients with ICF underwent surgical fixation using two resorbable long screws.
• Preoperative imaging included panoramic radiography and spiral computed tomography (CT) with DICOM data.
• SimPlant Pro™ software (version 11.04) was utilized for virtual planning and 3D reconstruction.
• Intraoperative findings were compared with the virtual surgical plan.

Main Results:

• The virtual surgical plan accurately corresponded to intraoperative mandibular anatomy and fracture reduction in all patients.
• Mean follow-up was 21 months (range 6-46 months).
• Complete restoration of occlusion and mouth opening was achieved in 18 out of 19 patients, with anatomical reduction in most cases.

Conclusions:

• Computer-assisted virtual technology is a valuable tool for diagnosing and preoperative planning of ICF.
• Fixation of intracapsular condylar fractures using two resorbable long screws is an effective and reliable treatment method.
• This technique facilitates accurate anatomical reduction and functional recovery.