Early condylectomy to prevent prognathism: a preliminary report.

The effect of bilateral condylectomy in the child with prognathism is described. Reference is made to the anteroposterior growth component of the mandible as measured by peroperative and postoperative cephalometric radiographs. The interruption in the growth of the mandible, coupled with the retropositioning that occurs immediately after the operation, reduces absolute or relative prognathism. Preliminary observation indicates that this prophylaxis does not prevent reformation of the condyle, nor does it result in any clinically discernible change in mandibular movements. Should the condyle reform before body growth is complete, a recommencement of anteroposterior growth in the mandible occurs.