Growth of the Mandible after Condylar Reconstruction by Autogenous Coronoid Process Graft in Goats

the growth pattern of the mandible, and condylar damage during childhood results in severe functional and cosmetic impairment1. Costochondral graft is the most recognised method for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstruction in paediatric patients because of its potential for growth2,3. However, problems still remain, such as inevitable donor site morbidity and unpredictable growth4,5. A few surgeons have reported the use of autogenous coronoid process for TMJ reconstruction since it often needs to be resected and discharged in some cases, especially in those patients with joint ankylosis6–8. Our previous study on adult goats also showed that the grafted coronoid process could gradually remodel to a neocondyle with functional shape and structure under the mechanical stimuli of the TMJ site9, but it is unknown whether the mandible would continue to grow in young individuals after coronoid process transplantation. In the present study, we hypothesised that mandibular growth would not be disturbed following the condylar reconstruction by autogenous coronoid process graft. To test this, the effects of condylar reconstruction by auto-