An Alternative Location for Fixation of Subcondylar Fractures With 2 Resorbable Plates

Mandibular subcondylar fractures can be fixed with 2 titanium plates or 2 resorbable plates. However, when a wider resorbable plate is used, there might be insufficient space on subcondylar region. The authors have tested the back of the condyle as an alternative location for the wide resorbable plate.

The fractured condyle was accessed through the preauricular approach. The first resorbable plate (4 hole plate, extended; 2 mm Inion OTPSTM) was contoured around the posterior edge of the mandibular ramus. The upper and lower parts of the very resorbable plate were twisted into 2 different planes. The upper part was adapted and then fixed on the back of the condylar neck. And the lower part was fixed on the lateral surface of the posterior edge of the mandibular ramus. The second plate (4 hole plate; 2 mm Inion OTPSTM) was put below the mandibular notch as usual.

Postoperative computed tomography confirmed a stable anatomical reduction of condyle. One-year follow-up showed good fracture healing. The authors believe that the back of the condyle is particularly suitable for wider resorbable plate. And this alternative site on the back of the condyle is also feasible in cases where the conventional site is not available.