[The retromandibular approach in fractures of the mandibular condyle]

Various approaches have been proposed for surgical treatment of displaced condylar fractures included submandibular approach, preauricular approach, rhytidectomy approach or intraoral approach. Since 1992, we used a short retromandibular approach to treat displaced subcondylar fractures with a miniplate. When open reduction and osteosynthesis are required, the retro-mandibular approach is an easy and safe technique for displaced condylar fractures. The aim of this article was to describe the short retro-mandibular approach. Indications for surgical treatment, surgical approach and techniques of osteosynthesis for condylar fractures are discussed.