Condylar Resorption

Condylar resorption, also called idiopathic condylar resorption, ICR, and condylysis, is a temporomandibular joint disorder in which one or both of the mandibular condyles are broken down in a bone resorption process. This disorder is nine times more likely to be present in females than males, and is more common among teenagers.

Symptoms and signs

Symptoms that may be associated with condylar resorption include:

• Occlusion
• Anterior open bite
• Receding chin
• Clicking or popping when opening or closing the jaw
• Pain when opening or closing the jaw
• Limited jaw mobility

Causes

The cause of condylar resorption is unknown, but there are theories. Because condylar resorption is much more likely to occur in young females, hormonal mediation may be involved. Strain on the temporomandibular joint from orthodontics or orthognathic surgery may be related to the condition. Reactive arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis are other possible causes.

Diagnosis

Treatments

Treatment of condylar resorption is controversial. Orthognathic surgery may be done to reconstruct and stabilize the condyles and disc of the temporomandibular joint. Anti-inflammatory medication is also used to slow the resorption process. Orthodontics may be used to treat the occlusion. Arthrocentesis, and arthroscopic surgery are also sometimes used to treat disc displacement and other symptoms.

See also

• TMJ disorder
• Orthognathic surgery
• Condylar Hyperplasia