Open mandibular condylotomy (osteotomy) with precision scaphoid staple osteosynthesis and meniscopexy. A description of the operation

The technical minutiae of the operation of open mandibular condylotomy and precision scaphoid staple osteosynthesis with meniscoplasty or meniscopexy is described and illustrated. The operation is regarded as an evolution of closed condylotomy described by Ward in 1961 and is indicated for those cases of severe and persistent temporomandibular joint pain and crepitus unresponsive to skilled conservative treatment over a reasonable time. The success of the procedure is probably the sequel of a partial denervation of the joint capsule associated with arthrotomy, the interruption of venous hypertension, the relocation of the mandibular condyle and enlargement of the joint space. The operation is also applicable to cases of active (and inactive) mandibular condylar hyperplasia wherein a condylar neck ostectomy and staple is used to ablate an active growth centre or correct a lesser degree of mandibular asymmetry.