A comparative study of closed versus open reduction and internal fixation (using retromandibular approach) in the management of subcondylar fracture.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation compared with closed reduction approach for fractures occurring at the subcondylar level.

STUDY DESIGN: Twenty-two patients with subcondylar fractures were included in the study; 12 patients were treated by closed reduction and 10 patients underent open reduction and rigid internal fixation, with follow-up at 3 and 6 months. Selection of patients for open and closed procedures was done on a random basis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that open reduction and internal fixation of displaced subcondylar fractures showed better results clinically as well as radiographically compared with similar fractures treated by closed reduction.