Mandibular coronoid fractures: treatment options.

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Traumatology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Fractures of the mandibular coronoid process are uncommon and frequently overlooked.
• Accurate classification and understanding of treatment options are crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To classify fracture patterns of the mandibular coronoid process.
• To explore and evaluate treatment options for these fractures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 39 patients with mandibular coronoid process fractures.
• Treatment protocols based on fracture characteristics, mouth opening, and concomitant injuries.
• Follow-up duration of 12-60 months.

Main Results:

• Sixteen patients received conservative management; four with progressive trismus improved after coronoid process removal.
• Twenty-three patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) via a modified retromandibular approach.
• ORIF group showed significant improvement in maximum mouth opening, diet, and pain.

Conclusions:

• Conservative management is the initial approach for minimally displaced coronoid process fractures.
• ORIF via the modified retromandibular approach is a viable alternative for significantly displaced fractures or those with associated facial trauma.