Extracorporealization of the Mandibular Condyle: Effects on Viability and Function.

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthognathic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Extra-oral vertical ramus osteotomy (EVRO) allows extracorporealization of the condylar segment for complex fractures and osteochondromas.
• Concerns exist regarding the long-term condylar health following this surgical approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the surgical outcomes and long-term viability of condylar extracorporealization using EVRO.
• To assess clinical and radiographic results in patients treated for condylar fractures and osteochondromas.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 26 patients undergoing EVRO with condylar extracorporealization.
• Evaluation of clinical outcomes including occlusion, maximum interincisal opening (MIO), facial asymmetry, infection, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.
• Radiographic assessment for condylar resorption using panoramic imaging.

Main Results:

• Average follow-up was 15.9 months, with average MIO of 36.8 mm.
• Five patients showed mild to moderate condylar resorption; three reported TMJ pain.
• Two malocclusions were linked to concurrent facial fractures, not the EVRO procedure itself.

Conclusions:

• Condylar extracorporealization via EVRO is a feasible treatment for complex condylar fractures when standard methods fail.
• The technique demonstrates acceptable clinical outcomes and viability for specific maxillofacial reconstructive procedures.