Transoral endoscopic-assisted VS external approach for performing ORIF in mandibular condyle fractures: a case-series study

Objective The treatment of condylar fractures can have significant morbidity. The purpose of this study is to suggest the safest approach by comparing endoscope-assisted and open surgery. Methods A case-series study was conducted in the Maxillo-Facial Surgery Unit of the Federico II University of Naples from January 2016 to January 2022 on 34 patients who underwent surgery for condylar fracture. Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria. They were divided into two groups according to the surgical technique used: Group A, made up of 15 patients treated by endoscope-assisted surgery; Group B made up of 15 patients treated by traditional non-endoscope-assisted surgery. Results The most common complication was transient facial nerve palsy, observed in group B in 4 patients (26%) and in only 2 patients in Group A (13%). Permanent facial nerve palsy occurred in 2 patients (13%) in Group B. No permanent facial nerve palsy was observed in Group A. No plates infection occurred in Group A, 1 case (7%) was recorded in Group B. Conclusions From our experience we can consider endoscope-assisted surgery a favorable option for treating condyle fractures. Patients’ selection for transoral endoscope-assisted surgery is extremely important to ensure the best surgical results with the less complications score.