Transmasseteric antero-parotid approach for open reduction and internal fixation of condylar fractures

The morbidity that results from surgical approaches to the condylar neck, and the time-consuming nature of the operation inhibits many surgeons from using open reduction and internal fixation for the treatment of condylar fractures. The many approaches that have been described stand testimony to the disadvantages of the individual techniques. The most common problems are limited access and injury to the facial nerve. We describe the transmasseteric antero-parotid (TMAP) technique, which offers swift access to the condylar neck while substantially reducing the risk to the facial nerve and eliminating the complications associated with transparotid approaches. (C) 2004 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.