Closed versus open treatment of mandibular condylar process fractures: A meta-analysis of retrospective and prospective studies

IntroductionThe treatment of fractures of the mandibular process remains controversial, although there is a trend towards open reduction and internal fixation. This study compared open and closed treatments and assessed the results with a meta-analysis.Materials and methodsA literature search of PubMed found eight studies that met the search criteria and were included in the meta-analysis.ResultsThe studies increasingly suggest better results for open treatment, in terms of mouth opening, protrusion, laterotrusion, pain, and malocclusion. In the meta-analysis, the outcome was significantly better for laterotrusion and protrusion in patients treated by open reduction and internal fixation.ConclusionDue to the different study protocols and lack of information on classification, follow-up time, and inclusion criteria, comparison of the studies remains difficult and further prospective, randomized studies should examine these issues.