Condylar Resorption
Progressive loss of condylar head volume due to remodelling or pathological destruction, potentially causing mandibular retrusion and anterior open bite.
Full Definition
Condylar resorption (also called idiopathic condylar resorption or progressive condylar resorption when no clear cause is identified) involves the breakdown of condylar cartilage and subchondral bone, leading to a decrease in the vertical ramus height. It disproportionately affects young women and may be exacerbated by orthognathic surgery or heavy orthodontic forces. Clinically, it can cause relapse of Class II correction, increasing anterior open bite, and worsening facial aesthetics. Editors must distinguish it from normal condylar remodelling and must not abbreviate it as 'CR' without first defining the acronym, as 'CR' is also used for centric relation.
Usage
Usage note: Avoid 'CR' as shorthand unless explicitly defined; ambiguous with 'centric relation' in the same document context.
In Context
- "Post-surgical condylar resorption was cited as the primary cause of the patient's relapsed open bite." — Surgical case report
- "Authors should not abbreviate condylar resorption as 'CR' without prior definition, given the risk of confusion with centric relation." — Journal style guidance