Volumetric outcomes of treatment for unilateral condylar fractures: A pilot study

Abstract

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging allows assessment of changes in condylar volume and morphology. The association between the morphology of the condyle and post-treatment functional impairment is still unclear.

Purpose

To analyse the volume of both condyles after a unilateral condylar fracture and to evaluate the relationship between condylar volume and mandibular function.

Methods

A pilot study was performed in which data from a recently published cross-sectional study were used. In a previously published cross-sectional study a cone beam computed tomography scan was acquired of patients with a unilateral condyle fracture. These scans were analysed, and the condylar volumes were measured and related to the outcomes of the Mandibular Functional Impairment Questionnaire and the Mixing Ability Test.

Results

Patients with larger condyles have a better recovery regarding function than patient with smaller condyles, independent of the received treatment. This study showed a significant positive correlation between masticatory function and the post-treatment volume of the fractured condyle. Men tended to have larger condyle volumes than women and seem to have a better outcome in function. A larger condyle volume was associated with an increase of the mouth opening.

Conclusion

Given that the volume of the condyle is associated with the function of the temporomandibular joint, imaging may be helpful to stratify the pathophysiological adaptation mechanisms and to improve our ability to plan individualized treatment.