Commentary to "The influence of the sagittal split osteotomy on the condylar cartilage structure and the subchondral vascularization of the temporomandibular joint: A preliminary study in goats"

Progressive condylar resorption (PCR) (or condylysis) is a mysterious malady that can occur spontaneously without intervention or can occur after orthodontic and/or surgical intervention to correct malocclusions. We know very little about this process. It has been demonstrated more commonly in patients who have high mandibular plane angles. What is unclear, however, is whether such individuals are simply more susceptible to this process or whether they already have been afflicted by the process and are prone to progression of the process. It is very possible that these individuals might have high mandibular plane angles because they have already had some condylar resorption early in life.