Traumatic Posterior Dislocation of Bilateral Mandible Condyles into External Auditory Canal Treated with Midline Mandibulotomy: A Rare Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Background

Posterior dislocation of the condyle from the glenoid fossa fracturing the anterior wall of the canal and ultimately restricting lower jaw movements is a rare condition. It may occur due to lax intra-articular ligaments or periarticular tissue or as a result of injury to the chin region. Very few cases of this condition are reported in the literature.

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present a rare case report and review of literature related to posterior dislocation of bilateral mandible condyles to the external auditory canal, its diagnosis, and treatment with midline mandibulotomy.

Method

We used conservation methods to reduce it initially but not succeeded. Then we used midline mandibulectomy to reduce the individual condyle to its original position without opening the condyle region.

Results

We achieved a successful reduction of the dislocation and achieved with good occlusion and postoperative mouth opening. No complications like recurrence and TMJ ankylosis occurred.

Conclusion

Bilateral posterior dislocation is a rare condition; proper clinical, radiographic diagnosis, and early treatment with manual or surgical intervention are required to avoid complications.