Osteotomy-osteosynthesis in displaced condylar fractures.

Nine male patients were treated for condylar fractures of the mandible by a method involving detachment of the condylar head. Pre-operatively, all patients had severe malocclusion. Radiologically, most condyles were anteromedially displaced. Open reduction was indicated but repositioning of the condyle was impossible without ramus osteotomy followed by temporary condylectomy. On follow-up roughly 32 months after surgery no permanent complications were seen. Joint function was almost completely restored. Radiographic evaluation revealed some shortening and deformation of the condyles which had been operated. Translation and rotation movements were almost normal. The method described appears useful in those rare cases of fractures in which normal repositioning of a dislocated condyle is difficult.