Long term results of open reduction management of condylar fracture: a 20 years follow-up : case report

Management of condylar fracture may be surgical (open reduction) or non surgical (closed treatment). The age of the patient is a key factor in the choice of treatment. Condylar fracture requires early treatment to avoid ankylosis, to reduce facial deformity, aesthetic problems and functional disturbances. The protocol described in this case report showed excellent results and achieved all the treatment objectives. Early mobilization is the key in treating condylar fractures and to allow functional remodelling. It is important that every specialist should be able to suspect condylar fracture when facial asymmetry, joint problems, muscles pain, occlusion or nerve disorders develop after an injury. An early diagnosis can permit an early treatment that prevents esthetic and functional complications. The purpose of this article is to describe the long term clinical and radiological evaluation of unilateral condylar fracture in a teenager patient treated by condylectomy, physiotherapy and fixed appliance therapy. Twenty years follow-up records are presented.