Reduction and fixation of mandibular condylar fractures with neck screw.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study is to describe a surgical technique for the treatment of condylar fractures using an intramedullary screw.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The treatment of these fractures remains very controversial. At the time of the choice of the surgical treatment, a wide range of accesses and of techniques of reduction and fixation is used, depending on the type of the fracture, the experience of the surgeon, and aesthetical issues. Among the difficulties posed by this type of fracture is the correct repositioning of the fractured condylar portion for which we have developed a technique that uses a neck screw, with intramedullary insertion. Because this is a round-headed screw, it is necessary to install a plate, which may be straight or "L" shape, and is placed perpendicular and superjacent to the screw so that it does not allow the rotation of the condylar portion.

RESULTS

Neck screw can be used, resulting in satisfactory stability, for the reduction and fixation of these fractures.