Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Mandibular Condylar Base and Neck Fractures Using Strut Plates.

PURPOSE

To evaluate clinical, radiologic, and functional outcomes of patients with condylar neck or base fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation using strut plates.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty patients with 34 condylar neck and base fractures were included in the study. Transoral endoscopically assisted, submandibular, or transparotid approaches were performed. Clinical and radiologic outcomes were evaluated. Functional outcomes were assessed with the Helkimo index in a subgroup of 15 patients.

RESULTS

Strut plates were successfully placed in all surgical approaches used in this study. Fracture healing occurred without complications in 33 condylar processes. One plate fracture occurred. In the subgroup, 7 patients had a good functional outcome, 7 had a slightly impaired functional outcome, and 1 patient had a moderately impaired functional outcome.

CONCLUSION

Strut plates are appropriate for retromandibular transparotid, endoscopically assisted transoral, or submandibular approaches in the management of condylar neck or base fractures. Intraoperative handling and fitting accuracy of the strut plates are good. Good to slightly impaired functional outcome was observed in a subgroup of patients.