Osteochondroma of the temporomandibular joint: Condylectomy and “Swing-back” of the mandible

Abstract

Osteochondroma (OC) is a common long bone tumor, which rarely affects the cranio-maxillofacial region. They present with cartilage-capped bony protuberances that present themselves on the external bony surface, with asymmetry of face and malocclusion being their most common presentations. There is no definite protocol for its management, although treatment is directed towards the rectification of the facial asymmetry to provide pleasant esthetics and functional occlusion. It is usually managed by the surgical removal of the tumor i.e condylectomy, and second stage orthognathic surgery if required. We hereby represent two OC cases with the aim to revisit the long known concept of “swing-back” of mandible post condylectomy, which was performed along with mandibular lower border shaving, thus proving it to be an effective management option in patients not willing for later gnathic surgeries, as mandible attains near-normal position along with adequate function with such single-stage management.Osteochondroma (OC) rarely affects the cranio-maxillofacial region, with condyle and the coronoid process being the most affected facial bones. There is still uncertainity about its pathogenesis and etiology, hence a definitive diagnosis should be made after a combined clinical and radiological examination.