Research Information System
Clinical Dentistry and Research, vol.48, no.3, pp.140-147, 2024 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)
Background and Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of mandibular parasymphysis fractures on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condylar volume using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 10 patients with isolated mandibular parasymphysis fractures. Pre- and postoperative CBCT images were used for volumetric measurements of TMJ condyles, performed with Mimics software. Postoperative scans were taken at least six months after surgery. Results: The patients had a mean age of 27.7±6.29 years, with 40% female and 60% male, and a mean follow-up period of 34.10±27.01 months. Significant increases in condylar volume were observed bilaterally. The left condylar volume increased from 94.76 mm³ to 107.6 mm³ (p=0.028), and the right from 93.28 mm³ to 112.95 mm³ (p=0.028). Gender differences in condylar volume changes were not significant (p>0.999 and p=0.610 for left and right, respectively). Female patients showed a volume increase of 11.99% on the left and 11% on the right, while males had increases of 10.91% and 14.64%, respectively. Conclusion: Mandibular parasymphysis fractures appear to induce TMJ condylar remodeling, resulting in increased condylar volume. These changes, detected through CBCT, likely stem from intra-articular bleeding, dystrophic calcification, and bone mass adaptation driven by Wolff’s law. The findings suggest a biomechanical remodeling process without gender disparity. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term implications for TMJ function and morphology.