Rhytidectomy approach for management of Subcondylar fractures of Mandible

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the mandibular condyle are common and account for 25% to 50% of all mandibular fractures. There are various approaches available for open reduction and internal fixation of condylar fractures of mandible. This study was done to evaluate the efficacy of Rhytidectomy approach for open reduction and internal fixation of subcondylar fractures of the mandible. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 20 patients (16 males and 4 females) in the age group of 20 to 40 years were included in the study. All patients had unilateral subcondylar fractures with or without associated fractures of mandible. Patients were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Radiographic examination using CT scan was done pre and post operatively. All patients were treated with General anesthesia using Rhytidectomy or facelift approach for open reduction and internal fixation of unilateral subcondylar fractures of mandible. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Average mouth opening preoperatively was 23.2 ± 2.6 mm and was increased to 36.2 ± 2.8 mm post operatively. All cases had occlusal derangements pre operatively which got resolved excellently due to very good anatomic reduction. Surgical access was excellent and scar was inconspicuous in all patients. Post operatively, TMJ pain was found in two patients, and clicking sound and deviation was present in two patients. Salivary fistula was seen in three patients. Transient facial nerve weakness was noticed in three patients and auricular anesthesia observed in two patients.