Mini retromandibular incision with transmasseteric dissection for management of subcondylar mandibular fracture

Abstract

Background In the maxillofacial region, mandibular subcondylar fractures are very common. Without appropriate management, they can lead to substantial functional deficits, malocclusion, and mouth-opening limitations. Aim The aim was to explore the effectiveness of the mini retromandibular ante parotid approach in subcondylar fractures. Patients and methods This observational study was conducted on 20 patients with displaced Subcondylar fractures in the Otorhinolaryngology Department of Tanta University Hospital-maxillofacial surgery unit. The duration from April 2023 to 2024 is over 1 year. Results Regarding scar, 14 (70%) patients were very satisfied with the outcome, three (15%) patients were satisfied, two (10%) patients were neutral, and one (5%) patient was dissatisfied. No patients were very dissatisfied. Regarding trauma mechanism, 19 (95%) patients had Motor Vehicle Accidents, and one (5%) patients fell. Facial nerve assessment at 1 week showed one (5%) patient with facial nerve weakness resolved at 1 month and 6–12 months. Conclusions Our study suggests that the treatment approach used for condylar fractures and associated mandibular fractures yielded favorable outcomes. Most patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment, and complications were relatively low. Both radiographic evaluation and temporomandibular joint function evaluation showed positive results over time. Mini retromandibular transmasseteric is an effective and promising approach for subcondylar fractures.