Abstract

Background and objective: Mandibular fractures are the most frequent and sub condylar region is a common site of fracture. Proper management of sub condylar fracture is a matter of controversy. Improper management of sub condylar fracture can lead to impaired function and aesthetics. Hence a timely and appropriate management of sub condylar fracture is mandatory. Aim of the study was to evaluate the merits and demerits of conservative management of mandibular sub condylar fractures.
Materials and methods: A total of 430 mandibular fractures were evaluated and out of this 107 had sub condylar fractures. In this study a clinical attempt was made to study comprehensively the conservative management of sub condylar fractures. The factors considered were age, sex, associated fractures of facial bones, treatment and complications.
Results: Among 107 patients 85 males and 22 females had sub condylar fracture. Associated facial bone fractures were seen in 44 cases. There was no complication of ankyloses. Lateral mandibular movement was regained in 82.6% of cases and satisfactory occlusion achieved in all cases.
Conclusion: Based on this study conservative management of mandibular sub condylar fracture gives good results in most of the cases if managed judiciously.

Keywords: Sub-condylar fracture; Conservative management; Inter maxillary fixation; Mouth opening