Condylar morphology and volume comparison in different skeletal classes: a CBCT study

Objective To evaluate morphological differences in the mandibular condyle using CBCT among skeletal Class I, II, and III patients, considering vertical growth patterns.Materials and Methods CBCT scans from 75 patients aged 18–50 years were analysed. Subjects were classified into skeletal Classes I, II, and III (n=25 each), and into vertical patterns: hypodivergent (n=11), normodivergent (n=36), and hyperdivergent (n=28). Condylar length, width, height, and volume were measured using 3D Slicer. Data were analysed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test.Results Class III patients exhibited greater mediolateral width and height of the condyle compared with Class II, bilaterally. Condylar volume was significantly larger in Class III than in Class II, while Class I showed intermediate values. Hypodivergent subjects presented greater condylar width than hyperdivergent individuals. Males presented significantly greater condylar volume, width, and height when compared to females.Conclusions Condylar morphology varies significantly according to skeletal class and vertical growth pattern. Class III and hypodivergent patients presented larger condyles compared with Class II and hyperdivergent patients, respectively.