[Comparative efficacies of non-surgical treatment for pediatric and adult sagittal fractures of mandibular condyle].

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacies of non-surgical treatment for pediatric and adult sagittal fractures of mandibular condyle.

METHODS

From January 1985 to December 2010, our department treated 67 cases (82 sides) sagittal fractures of mandibular condyle with occlusal splint at a height of 1-2 mm in molar region for six months or other non-surgical treatment. Their clinical and radiological remodeling of affected condyles after treatment were reviewed at six mouths, one year and each year after treatment. They were divided into 2 groups according to age. There were 28 patients (34 sides) aged over 12 years and 39 patients (48 sides) under 12 years. During a follow-up period of 2-25 years, mandibular activity, mouth opening and parallel CT scan of condylar morphological alterations were examined.

RESULTS

Under 12-year-old group:good mandibular function was observed in 39 patients. Maximal mouth opening over 35 mm was achieved at 6 months.Only 11 of 39 patients had deviation on mouth opening at 6 months.Radiological studies showed that 32 condyles were complete remodeling and 16 condyles were partial remodeling. Poor remodeling was not observed. Over 12-year-old group:Ankylosis occurred in 4 joints. And 15 of 28 patients had deviation on mouth opening at 6 months.Radiological studies showed the remodeling of condyles was complete (n = 6), partial (n = 16) and poor (n = 12) respectively.

CONCLUSION

Mandibular functional recovery and condylar remodeling are better in children with more powerful healing and reconstructing capacities.