Comparison of nonsurgical treatment options in pediatric condylar fractures: rigid intermaxillary fixation versus using guiding elastic therapy

J Craniofac Surg. 2013 May;24(3):e203-6. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0b013e318293d605.

Abstract

A prospective study was done to compare rigid intermaxillary fixation and guiding elastic for treatment of condylar fractures in pediatric patients. Sixty-one children younger than 12 years with condylar fractures were studied in 2 groups. Group 1 consisted of 31 patients who were treated with arch bar and intermaxillary fixation for 7 to 12 days, and group 2 consisted of 30 patients who were treated with arch bar and elastics without rigid intermaxillary fixation. Patients had minimal function during treatment time, which lasted 7 to 12 days. Evaluation of deviation on opening between both groups (groups 1 and 2) with a χ test did not show any relationship between them. Incidence of temporomandibular dysfunction signs was 25.8% in group 1 patients and 23.3% in group 2 patients. Comparison of temporomandibular dysfunction signs in both treatment groups did not show a statistically significant relationship. Our study showed the same results using guiding elastics as using rigid intermaxillary fixation in pediatric condylar fractures. Guiding elastic is more tolerable, and children have function during treatment.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Jaw Fixation Techniques* / instrumentation
  • Male
  • Malocclusion / classification
  • Mandibular Condyle / injuries*
  • Mandibular Fractures / classification
  • Mandibular Fractures / therapy*
  • Pain Measurement
  • Prospective Studies
  • Range of Motion, Articular / physiology
  • Sound
  • Temporomandibular Joint / physiopathology
  • Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome / classification