The comparative study of mandibular ramus growth with different treatment methods for intracapsular condylar fracture

The purpose of this study was to evaluate mandibular ramus growth after different treatment methods for intracapsular condylar fracture (ICF) of growing goats. Twelve 6-month-old goats were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 4). The right ICF was created and respectively treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and closed treatment. No operation was taken in the control group. The maximum mouth opening and height of mandibular ramus were measured immediately and 3 months after operation by 3-dimensional computed tomographic analysis. Results of the 3 groups were compared statistically. Maximum mouth opening in the closed treatment group was significantly reduced 3 months after operation than before operation (P < 0.05), but not in ORIF and control groups (P > 0.05). Heights of mandibular ramus in ORIF and control groups were significantly longer than that in the closed treatment group 3 months after operation (P < 0.05). Open reduction and internal fixation is an efficient method to treat ICF of growing goats. It has a better effect on maintaining mandibular ramus growth than closed treatment.