Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Dergisi, cilt.30, sa.3, ss.544-550, 2023 (Hakemli Dergi)
Objective Although mandibular condylar fractures represent one of the most frequent types of fractures in the mandible, their treatment remains controversial. This study aimed to determine the safety of treatment method, reduce postoperative complications, and describe our clinical experience. Material and Method Fifty-three patients with subcondylar mandibular fractures were included. The patients were treated with closed reduction (CR) or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Arch bar or intermaxillary screws, and rubber were used for intermaxillary fixation (IMF) in all patients. Statistical analysis was subsequently performed. Results A total of 37 male patients and 16 female patients were included in this study. Falls were the most common cause of mandibular fractures in the study (n=23; 43.3%). Postoperative complications included malocclusion, temporomandibular dysfunction (mouth opening less than 30 mm), facial nerve neuropathy, and infection. There was no statistically significant difference between the CR and ORIF groups in the postoperative complication of malocclusion.All patients with malocclusion (n=8) had concomitant fractures (n=23). There was a statistically significant difference between the subgroups (group with concomitant fracture and group without concomitant fracture) in terms of postoperative malocclusion complications. A mean duration of 21 days was also always associated with temporomandibular dysfunction. Conclusion This study demonstrated the need for balancing the pros and cons in determining the proper treatment choice. ORIF has several advantages; however, it can be accompanied by postoperative complications. The duration of IMF can lead to functional disorders, and patients should cooperate with consultants in the treatment decision.