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Facial Plast Surg 2004; 20(3): 239-247
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-861780
Copyright © 2004 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA.

Endoscopic Approach to Subcondylar Mandible Fractures

Robert M. Kellman1
  • 1Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York.
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Publication History

Publication Date:
11 January 2005 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Current interest in minimally invasive surgery has extended to the repair of craniomaxillofacial fractures, including subcondylar fractures of the mandible. Recent experience indicates that rigid fixation by the endoscopic approach is technically feasible, particularly for subcondylar fractures with lateral displacement of the proximal fragment. The technique is more difficult (although not impossible) for medially displaced fractures. High condylar fractures and comminuted fractures may not be amenable to this approach unless there is enough bone present to allow placement of screws in the proximal fragment. Because evidence suggests that the outcome of open reduction of subcondylar fractures may be better than the outcome when closed management is performed, techniques that minimize the morbidity of open reduction should allow better long-term results. It is hoped that the endoscopic approach for the repair of subcondylar fractures of the mandible will provide these benefits. The technique is summarized with step-by-step explanations.

KEYWORDS

Subcondylar mandible fractures - endoscopic approach - open reduction of subcondylar fractures

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Robert M KellmanM.D. 

Professor and Chairman, Department of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University

750 E. Adams Street

Syracuse, NY 13210

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