A probable case of a non-union condylar fracture in an individual from Hegra (Madâ’in Sâlih), AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The present communication describes the anthropological assessment of a disassociated mandible (MS 2015 50532_B1) from Hegra Tomb IGN-116.1, dating to approximately the 1st Century CE, within the period of Nabataean occupation. An interesting example of a possible antemortem fracture and associated biomechanical metamorphoses of the mandibular condyle are described; differential diagnoses of the latter morphological observations are duly considered. Oral status, including pathology, is also presented. The mandible was subjected to morphoscopic, microscopic and x-ray examination relative to anthropological profiling (age and sex) and assessment of trauma, pathology and oral health. Morphological and radiological assessment suggests a young adult male status. What is interpreted as an antemortem non-union fracture of the right mandibular condyle presents exuberant bone formation and significant morphological remodelling. A periapical lesion of tooth #35 presents evidence of an associated odontogenic sinus tract; this individual otherwise presents excellent dental health. Condylar fractures are infrequently analysed and/or described in the palaeopathological literature. Further, the present case shows an interesting morphological response to non-consolidation, including likely compensatory biomechanical adaptation. This work highlights the diagnostic potential of incomplete human skeletal remains from a UNESCO site of World Heritage status.