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Infant Mandibular Condyle Fractures: Literature Review and Case Series
Ashley Leberfinger, MD, Alexa Mier, BS, and Ashish Francis, MD
Summa Health
2024-01-15
Presenter: Ashley Leberfinger, MD
Affidavit:
Ananth Murthy
Director Name: Ananth Murthy
Author Category: Fellow Plastic Surgery
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: Craniomaxillofacial
Background:
Mandible fractures are rare in infants. There's a paucity of data regarding infant condylar fractures. The condyle is the primary growth center of the mandible and surgical treatment can lead to growth disturbances.
Methods:
We performed a literature review of infant condylar fractures and reviewed our institutional experience.
Results:
A PubMed search produced 7 articles describing 7 infants with condyle fractures. Most patients (57%) had condylar in addition to symphyseal fractures. Two patients had unilateral and one bilateral condylar fractures. Fractures were more common in males (57%). The most common mechanism was falls (57%). Non-accidental trauma (NAT) was not identified. Treatment was conservative in 43%, which were all isolated condylar fractures. Surgical treatment was performed to address symphyseal fractures in all multi-segment cases, but condylar fractures were treated in a closed manner. Average follow up was 10 months & all were reported to have normal growth.
Our institutional experience revealed 5 patients with condylar fractures, two of which were bilateral. 60% were male and all presented after a fall. NAT was identified in one case. Conservative treatment was performed in all cases. Follow up was on average 1.4 weeks, but all symptoms had resolved.
Conclusion:
Normal condylar growth is important for facial growth. Although non or minimally displaced condylar fractures in infants demonstrate remarkable remodeling and can be treated conservatively, it is important they are followed closely. Additionally, they should be screened for NAT, as infant facial proportions render the mandible relatively protected. Further investigation is needed to elucidate long-term sequelae.
