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Mandible fractures are common in maxillofacial trauma, and condyle fracture accounts for about 25% to 35% of all mandibular fractures. Malocclusion, deviation of the mandible, temporomandibular joint dysfunction and ankylosis may result in sequelae of condylar fractures. Over the years, there has been a continuous dispute over conservative versus open surgical treatment of mandibular condylar fractures. Surgeons who prefer closed treatment cite the reduced morbidity, while surgeons who prefer surgical treatment cite minimal sequelae. From 2000 to 2003, the authors performed open reduction on 10 patients with mandible condyle fractures. Immediate relief from malocclusion and correction of mandibular midline shifting were seen in all the patients. Late temporomandibular dysfunction, ankyloses were not seen. In patients who present symptoms preoperatively, benefits of open surgery can be determined to far outweigh the morbidity in the experienced hands.
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