What is condylectomy in dentistry?
Condylectomy is a surgical procedure in the field of dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. It involves the surgical removal of all or part of the mandibular condyle, which is the rounded structure at the back of the lower jawbone that articulates with the temporal bone of the skull to create the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Condylectomy is performed to treat various jaw disorders and conditions related to the TMJ, including:
1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD): Condylectomy may be considered for TMD cases when conservative treatments, such as medications, physiotherapy, or other non-surgical therapies, have failed to alleviate severe symptoms. The goal of condylectomy in TMD is to correct jaw alignment, improve joint mobility, and reduce pain.
2. Fractures: When the mandibular condyle fractures due to trauma or injury, condylectomy might be necessary if the fracture is complex or does not heal properly.
3. Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis: Ankylosis is a condition where the TMJ becomes fused or locked in place, limiting jaw movement. In severe cases of ankylosis, condylectomy can be performed to restore jaw mobility.
4. Degenerative Joint Disease: In advanced cases of degenerative TMJ disorders, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, condylectomy may be considered when other treatments fail to provide adequate pain relief.
5. Tumor Removal: Condylectomy can be performed to remove benign or malignant tumors that affect the mandibular condyle.
The decision to perform a condylectomy is made by an oral surgeon or maxillofacial surgeon after careful evaluation of the patient's condition, imaging findings, and past treatment outcomes. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, and may require hospitalization or outpatient monitoring depending on the complexity of the case. As with any surgical procedure, condylectomy carries inherent risks and complications, so it is essential to discuss these thoroughly with the surgeon before proceeding.