Evaluation of TMJ Functions after conservative Treatment of Unilateral Subcondylar Fracture

Abstract

Aim: It is to assess TMJ functions after conservative treatment of unilateral subcondylar fractures. Subjects and Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 20 patients with unilateral mandibular subcondylar fracture undergoing nonsurgical treatment. Clinical and radiographic examinations were done prior to treatment and at 12-month follow up. Pain, perceived occlusion, mouth opening, protrusion, and horizontal movements of the mandible were evaluated by clinical examination. Radiologic evaluation was done using panoramic radiographs.  Results: At 12-month follow-up, there was minimal pain in the temporomandibular joint region, there was an improvement in the perceived occlusion, without limited mouth opening. There was insignificant absolute difference between left and right lateral mandibular movements. The amount of increase in the protrusion of mandible was insignificant. On radiographic evaluation, mean ramus height pretreatment and 12 months post -treatment were 1.51+0.45 and 1.47+0.48, respectively.  Conclusion: Unilateral subcondylar fractures of the mandible can be treated nonsurgically in patients with minimal occlusal discrepancies, adequate mouth opening, minimal displacement of condyle, and minimal ramus height shortening.