[Endoscopically controlled fixation of condylar fractures]
R Schmelzeisen1, G Lauer, U Wichmann
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Mund-, Kiefer-, und Gesichtschirurgie, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Deutschland.
Mund-, Kiefer- Und Gesichtschirurgie : MKG
|March 26, 2013
Summary
Endoscopic techniques offer an alternative to traditional open surgery for condylar fractures, potentially reducing risks like facial nerve palsy. A new endoscopic device showed promise for plate fixation, aiding fracture healing in most cases.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
- Orthopedic Trauma
Context:
- Condylar fractures often necessitate extensive open surgical approaches.
- These approaches carry a significant risk of complications, including facial nerve palsy.
- Endoscopic surgery presents a less invasive alternative for managing these fractures.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of an endoscopic technique for the reduction and plate osteosynthesis of condylar fractures.
- To clinically test a novel device designed for endoscopically controlled plate application.
- To assess the feasibility of minimally invasive fixation for mandibular condyle fractures.
Summary:
- Seven cases of condylar fractures were treated using endoscopic control.
- A newly developed device for endoscopically guided plate fixation was utilized in three patients.
- Successful fracture healing was observed in two of the three cases where the new device was applied; one case required early plate removal due to fixation issues.
Impact:
- The described endoscopic technique and device may offer a method to further minimize surgical trauma in treating condylar fractures.
- This approach could potentially reduce the incidence of nerve damage and other complications associated with open surgery.
- Further research and clinical application could refine minimally invasive strategies in maxillofacial trauma surgery.
