European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

FACIAL NERVE INJURY RELATED WITH RETROMANDIBULAR TRANSPAROTID APPROACH AFTER OPEN REDUCTION AND FIXATION FOR MANDIBULAR CONDYLE FRACTURE

Sandhya Joshi*, Ishfa Banu Haque, Dr. Kishor Bhandari, Gaurav Karna and Bandana Khanal

ABSTRACT

Background: Although mandibular condylar fractures are common, their management remains controversial. The retromandibular transparotid approach is widely used for its advantages but is associated with risks of facial nerve injury (FNI). This study evaluates FNI incidence following this approach for condylar neck and subcondylar fractures. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 20 patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation with retromandibular transparotid approach during a three month period in the Department of Oral and maxillofacial surgery of National Trauma Center and Dental Department, Maxillofacial Unit of National Academy of Health Sciences, Bir Hospital.. Demographics, fracture details, surgical techniques, and postoperative outcomes were recorded. Facial nerve function was assessed using the House-Brackmann grading system at multiple intervals over three months. Appropriate statistics were computed. Results: The majority of patients were young males (90%) involved in road traffic accidents (55%). Most fractures were located in the subcondylar region (75%) and displaced medially (65%). Two patients (10%) experienced temporary buccal branch FNI, recovering fully within three months. One case of parotid sialocele was observed as a complication. Conclusion: Despite risks, the retromandibular transparotid approach remains effective for managing condylar fractures, emphasizing the importance of skilled surgical technique in minimizing complications.

Keywords: Facial nerve injury; Mandibular condyle; Maxillofacial.