Osteonecrosis of the mandibular condyle. Pathophysiology and core decompression.

Deviations of the condylar form are usually ascribed to "degenerative arthritis" or "osteoarthritis." More recently, osteonecrosis has been discussed as a possible cause of condylar degeneration and pain. This article presents a review of the literature on osteonecrosis, emphasizing the spectrum of degenerative osseous disease, which includes osteoarthrosis, condylsis, osteomyelitis, and osteonecrosis. Preliminary results of mandibular core decompression with and without bone grafting are presented suggesting a therapeutic benefit. Further study is recommended to elucidate this process.