Endoscopic treatment of subcondylar fractures.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: To evaluate the effectiveness of endoscopic treatment of subcondylar fractures, highlighting an improved technique of repair that facilitates ease of repair.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective review.

METHODS: All subcondylar fractures treated by the author with the improved endoscopic technique from 2001 to 2007 were reviewed.

RESULTS: A total 34 subcondylar fractures were initially treated with the outlined technique. Thirty-three of 34 were successfully managed with the endoscopic technique alone. There were no instances of facial nerve paralysis or palsy noted. There were two instances of malocclusion that were believed to be minor in the 27 of 34 patients who made themselves available for 6 week follow-up. Both of these patients had associated multiple maxillofacial fractures repaired. Average operative time from ramus incision start to completion of plate fixation for the subcondylar fracture was 32 (range, 21-49) minutes.

CONCLUSIONS: The outlined technique results in improved ease of rigid endoscopic fixation of subcondylar fractures in the majority of patients.