Condylar Fracture
Pronunciation: KON-dy-lar FRAK-chur
A fracture involving the condylar process of the mandible, ranging from intracapsular subcondylar fractures to complete condylar head dislocations.
Full Definition
A condylar fracture is a break in the condylar process of the mandible, which forms the superior articulating component of the temporomandibular joint. These fractures are classified by anatomical level (intracapsular, condylar neck, subcondylar) and displacement (undisplaced, displaced, dislocated). Management ranges from conservative treatment with soft diet and physiotherapy to open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Editors must be precise about the classification level stated in reports, as 'condylar' and 'subcondylar' are distinct anatomical locations and must not be used interchangeably.
Usage
Usage note: Specify fracture level and displacement in clinical documents. 'Condylar' and 'subcondylar' are anatomically distinct and must not be interchanged. Always cross-check with radiological findings when editing.
In Context
- "Imaging confirmed a displaced right condylar fracture with medial override following the road traffic accident." — Emergency Radiology Report
- "The operative plan distinguished between the right condylar fracture and the left subcondylar fracture in terms of surgical approach." — Surgical Treatment Plan