Atraumatic mandibular fossa perforation: a report of two cases and literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Atraumatic intrusion of the mandibular condylar head into the middle cranial fossa is exceedingly rare.

Methods: We report two spontaneous presentations of glenoid fossa defects with extracranial to intracranial communication in adults from a single institution in 2021. Both cases were managed operatively via collaboration between oral and maxillofacial surgery and neurosurgery. Clinical and radiologic presentations are reviewed as well as treatment strategies.

Conclusion: We aim to address possible etiologies, associated risk factors, and surgical management techniques for defect repair.

Keywords: Middle fossa; mandibular prosthesis; skull base; skull base anatomy; temporal mandibular joint.