Fracture of mandibular condyle—to open or not to open: an attempt to settle the controversy.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the outcome of the open method versus the closed method of treatment for mandibular condylar fracture.

STUDY

DESIGN

Fifty patients with fractures of the mandibular condylar processes were evaluated. All fractures were displaced, with a degree of deviation between the condylar fragment and the ascending ramus of 10 to 45 degrees (mediolaterally). The patients were randomly divided into two groups, with group 1 receiving open reduction internal fixation and group 2 receiving closed reduction. The follow-up was done over the period of 6 months.

RESULTS

Statistically significant improvement was seen in group 1 compared with group 2 in terms of anatomic reduction of the condyle, shortening of the ascending ramus, occlusal status, and deviation on mouth opening.

CONCLUSIONS

A statistically significant difference was seen in the patients treated with the open method, with improved temporomandibular joint functions and fewer short- and long-term complications compared with those treated with the closed method.