The costochondral graft: a solution or a source of facial asymmetry in growing children. A case report

Abstract

Costochondral grafts are most commonly used to restore severely affected mandibular condyles in growing children. Despite their world-wide use, the growth of costochondral grafts can vary, excess growth being the most consequential problem. A report is presented her of a patient who sustained facial asymmetry to the left as a consequence of retarded growth in the left mandibular condyle. A costochondral graft was used to replace the left mandibular condyle at the age of 12 years 8 months, but six years after the operation the initially pleasing postoperative appearance had given away to facial asymmetry to the right. This was clearly due to the excess growth of costochondral graft. Possible aetiological factors, intrinsic, functional or both, affecting the growth of costochondral grafts are discussed.