Condylar reconstruction by oblique sliding vertical-ramus osteotomy.

INTRODUCTION: The posterior border of the mandibular ramus can be used as a pedicled graft for reconstruction of the condyle. This article describes a technique that is better in certain situations than the use of other autogenous grafts or alloplastic materials. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Three adult patients, two with osteochondroma and one with hyperplasia were treated by condylectomy and simultaneous reconstruction with the pedicled posterior mandibular border. A meticulous oblique osteotomy and reinsertion of the lateral pterygoid muscle was performed. RESULTS: In all three cases an immediate mouth opening with stable occlusion was achieved. The interincisal opening was more than 40 mm after 3 weeks, with a deviation no greater than 4mm towards the affected side. All excursive movements were present in all directions, and correction of the facial asymmetry was achieved. There was no T.M.J. pain and all patients expressed satisfaction during the follow-up of 56 months (average). An adequate remodelling of the neocondyle without resorption as well as a stable occlusion was observed in every case. CONCLUSION: Reconstruction of the condyle by sliding vertical-oblique ramus osteotomy provides, in cases of condylar tumours, excellent functional and cosmetic results.