The bipartite condyle: A unique rare case report

Abstract

Double headed condyle or bifid mandibular condyle is rare anatomic anomaly that can result from congenital malformation, tumor, trauma or infection. This is an extremely rare disorder characterised by a duplication of the head of the mandibular condyle. We hereby report a case of double headed mandibular condyle with a separate neck which was diagnosed using computed tomography scan.Methodology: A 33 year old male patient presented with an alleged history of assault. CT faciomaxillary with 3D reconstruction revealed right coronoid process fracture and symphysis fracture and an incidental finding of a double condylar head with a separate neck on the right side. The fractures were fixed under general anaesthesia. The patient was followed up for 3 months. CT DICOM files were made followed by a stereolithographic model for the intricate understanding of this rare anomaly.Results: The shape of the main condylar head was conical with mild resorptive changes. The accessory condylar head branched from the neck of the main condylar head anteromedially with a separate neck. On regular follow up of three months, the patient had absolutely no complain of TMJ Pain and had normal TMJ movements bilaterally in all directions.Conclusion: Being one of the unique cases, this case is one of its kind since it exhibits one of the rarest morphological variant of the condylar heads. Treatment for such cases isn’t a compulsion however long term follow up is a must.