Skeletal changes after experimentally displaced condylar process fracture in growing rats

Summary Introduction Fractures of the mandibular condyle are common. A potential for growth disturbances in young individuals has been reported; however, there are few experiments studying such consequences. Skeletal changes after fracture of the condyle in the growing period were analysed in this study. Material Fifty young Wistar rats weighing 100 g were used. Under general anaesthesia unilateral fracture dislocations of the condylar process were induced surgically in the experimental group ( n = 25 ) , while only surgical access was performed in the sham-operated group. The animals were sacrificed at 3 months of age. The mandibles were disarticulated, and radiographs were taken (axial skulls and lateral hemimandibles). Cephalometric evaluations were made using a computer system. Statistical tests were applied between groups and contralateral sides in each group. Results There were atrophy and degenerative change of the fractured condylar process. There was also a significant difference in the height of the mandibular body and in the length of anterior and posterior maxilla. Conclusion It was concluded that an experimental fracture of the mandibular condyle during the growing period in rats induced degenerative changes of the condyle as well as an asymmetry of the mandible, affecting height of the body, also leading to consequences in the maxilla.