Condylar process fractures in children: a follow-up study of fractures with total dislocation of the condyle from the glenoid fossa.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term clinical and radiologic outcome of nonsurgically treated, dislocated condylar fractures sustained during childhood.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Dislocated condylar process fractures were diagnosed in 34 children aged 15 years or younger from 1980 to 1991. Of these, 26 had been treated nonsurgically and were asked to participate in a follow-up examination. Eighteen patients, representing 69% of the total sample, took part in the study. All patients underwent a clinical investigation with special emphasis on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function. The patients also underwent a radiologic investigation, focusing on fracture remodeling and symmetry of the mandible.

RESULTS: After a follow-up period ranging from 4.8 to 16.4 years (mean, 8.6 years), 56% had some subjective symptoms, and 72% had some objective signs of TMJ dysfunction. In general, however, the symptoms and signs of dysfunction were very slight. No correlation was observed between the method of nonsurgical treatment and the clinical results. Radiologic investigation showed incomplete remodeling (76.5%) and asymmetry of the mandible (64.7%) in most patients. The asymmetry was slight, however, and could not be observed clinically.

CONCLUSIONS: Conservative treatment of dislocated condylar process fractures in children results in satisfactory long-term outcome of jaw function despite a high frequency of radiologically noted aberrations. Soft diet with immediate mobilization seems to be the treatment of choice.