Open reduction of condylar neck fractures with exposure of the facial nerve

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic results in patients whose condylar neck fractures were reduced and stabilized through use of a standard preauricular approach involving systematic exposure of the facial nerve. Study design. We performed open reductions of high condylar neck fractures with exposure of the facial nerve in a prospective series of 34 patients. In this article, we describe clinical and radiologic results in 25 patients with follow-up longer than 6 months. Results. Immediate postoperative radiographs showed excellent reduction of the fractures in 24 patients. The postoperative course was uneventful in most patients. The incidence of complications was low; there were 5 patients with temporary facial nerve palsies, 3 patients with plate fractures or screw loosenings, 5 patients with transitory auricular hypoesthesia, 1 patient with inadequate reduction, and 1 patient with limited mouth opening. Conclusions. The results of this study showed that accurate reduction and rigid fixation of high condylar neck fractures were possible through use of an approach in which the facial nerve was exposed.