Abordaje retromandibular transparotídeo con fijación rígida en fracturas subcondíleas Retromandibular transparotid approach with rigid fixation in subcondylar fractures

Introduction: controversy exists regarding the management of mandibular condyle fractures, but the open approach with rigid fixation has been successful. A study was done about Retromandibular transparotideal approach with rigid fixation in subcondylar fractures. Objective: To characterize demographically the studied sample, to describe the obtained clinical and radiographical results, to identify associated accidents and complications. Material and methods: a case series study was carried out in 25 patients of the total of patients with subcondylar fractures diagnosis who attended to the Maxillofacial Departament, University Hospital "Miguel Enriquez", between 2002-2011. The sample was subjected to surgical treatment by means of retromandibular approach and rigid fixation. The studied variables were: demographical, clinical and radiographical variables; accidents and complications. The patients were evaluated chronologically. Results: patients among 15-24 years (40%), masculine sex (80%), unilateral fractures (80%), and high subcondylar (40%) prevailed. In 7 days the average value of maximum buccal opening was 39 mm and 3 mm of deflexion. 100% of the cases registered anatomical reduction. Conclusions: the transparotideal retromandibular approach with rigid fixation is an appropriate method of treatment of sub-condylar fractures with excellent aesthetic and functional results.