Abstract | PURPOSE: The different lines of intracapsular fractures of the mandibular condyle were studied and their influence on the prognosis following close treatment was evaluated. METHODS: In 40 patients with 50 intracapsular fractures of the mandibular condyle the following evaluation was carried out after close treatment: clinical, radiological and axiographical follow-up. The examinations were performed between 0.5-5 years following treatment. Three types of intracapsular fractures were distinguished. Type A = fractures through the medial condylar pole, type B = fractures through the lateral condylar pole with loss of vertical height of mandibular ramus, type M = multiple fragments, comminuted fractures. RESULTS: Moderate to serious dysfunction was observed in 33% of the cases. Radiological examination of fracture types B and M revealed a reduction in the height of the mandibular ramus by up to 13% as compared to the contralateral side. Also with regard to deformation of the condylar head these two fracture types resulted in the most prominent pathological findings. Axiography revealed irregular excursions and a clear limitation of condylar movement in comminuted fractures by up to 74% as compared to the non-fractured side. CONCLUSION: The findings emphasize the severity of lesions to the osseo-disko-ligamentous complex of the TMJ caused by intracapsular fractures of the mandibular condyle. The poor functional and radiological results encountered in the fracture types B and M demonstrated the limits of conservative functional treatment. With regard to fracture type B it may be discussed whether surgical therapy would improve the results.
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Authors | M Hlawitschka, U Eckelt |
Journal | Mund-, Kiefer- und Gesichtschirurgie : MKG
(Mund Kiefer Gesichtschir)
Vol. 6
Issue 4
Pg. 241-8
(Jul 2002)
ISSN: 1432-9417 [Print] Germany |
Vernacular Title | Klinische, radiologische und axiographische Untersuchung nach konservativ funktioneller Behandlung diakapitulärer Kiefergelenkfrakturen. |
PMID | 12242933
(Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article)
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Topics |
- Adolescent
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Fracture Healing
(physiology)
- Humans
- Immobilization
- Jaw Relation Record
- Male
- Mandibular Condyle
(injuries, pathology)
- Mandibular Fractures
(diagnosis, therapy)
- Middle Aged
- Temporomandibular Joint
(injuries, pathology)
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed
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