This retrospective study reports the reoperation rate for failure after modified condylotomy.
A consecutive series from each of two surgeons constituted the study group of 361 joints in 235 patients. Reoperation rates were calculated for all joints and by type of disc displacement.
A second operation occurred in 4.2% of all joints. However, the cumulative rate of reoperation was 4.4%, because one of the joints required a third operation. Although the rate of reoperation varied (0% to 6.5%) according to the type of disc displacement, the differences were not statistically significant. All joints requiring reoperation had a displaced disc, and more than half had lost nearly all the joint space gained by the primary operation.
The rate of reoperation for modified condylotomy is low. Risk factors for reoperation appear to be recurrent or residual disc displacement and loss of joint space after the first operation. Bilateral operation was not a risk factor.