The condylar process is the posterior projection of the mandibular ramus, consisting of a head and neck. The elliptical head articulates with the articular disc and fossa of the temporal bone at the temporomandibular joint. The medial pole of the head projects further medially than the lateral pole, so the long axis of each condyle is angled posterolaterally and the axes of the two condyles converge anteriorly at approximately 150 degrees.
The condylar neck is the weakest part of the mandible and the most common site of mandibular fracture, particularly from an indirect blow to the chin that transmits force bilaterally to the condylar necks. Condylar fractures range from subcondylar to intracapsular, each requiring different management from closed treatment to open reduction. Condylar resorption in the TMJ produces progressive Class II malocclusion and loss of posterior facial height in young women. Condylar hyperplasia causes hemifacial asymmetry requiring condylar shave or condylectomy.
The most common mandibular fracture site from indirect force transmission, producing trismus, deviation to the fractured side, and anterior open bite; managed conservatively with soft diet and physiotherapy for minimally displaced fractures or operatively with ORIF for significantly displaced or bilateral fractures.
Progressive idiopathic resorption of the condylar head, occurring predominantly in young females, produces Class II malocclusion, anterior open bite, and TMJ pain, managed with occlusal splinting and, when stable, corrective jaw surgery.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
