Abstract

RODRIGUEZ FLORES, J. et al. Transparotid approach for the open reduction of subcondylar fractures: Surgical technique and analysis of complications. Rev Esp Cirug Oral y Maxilofac [online]. 2011, vol.33, n.1, pp.9-14. ISSN 2173-9161.

Introduction: Several options exist for the treatment of subcondylar jaw fractures. The anterior transparotid approach is one of the therapeutic options for open reduction and internal fixation. The aim of this communication was to describe the surgical technique and analyze the related complications. Patients and methods: A clinical review was made of 31 patients with 34 subcondylar fractures, all treated surgically via an anterior transparotid approach using osteosynthesis plates and screws. Results: No complications occurred in 22 of 31 patients (70.97%) and the postoperative occlusion was good in 28 patients (90.32%). The complications related with the approach in our case series were: 2 cases of facial paresia (5.88%), both mild and transitory; 6 cases of salivary fistulae (17.65%), all self-limited; and 3 surgical wound infections (8.82%), 2 resolved with antibiotics and one with antibiotics and surgical drainage. Plate fracture, a complication unrelated to the approach but related to the type of osteosynthesis, occurred in 2 cases (5.88%). Conclusions: The anterior transparotid approach is safe, with a low risk of facial nerve injury. The technique gives the surgeon an adequate surgical field that allows the placement and easy fixation of a second osteosynthesis plate in the anterior part of the fracture. The resulting scar is cosmetically acceptable.

Keywords : Transparotid approach; Condylar fractures; Internal fixation; External approach.

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