Management of comminuted mandible fractures

Abstract

Comminuted mandible fractures generally are the result of a significant impact on a localized area of the oromandibular complex and are defined as multiple lines of fracture in one region of the mandible. These complex cases require careful diagnostic and radiographic workup, proper preoperative planning, and technically excellent execution of fracture reduction and fixation. Treatment principles include restoration of proper occlusion with maxillo-mandibular fixation, exposure and alignment of the fracture segments, and ultimate fixation with a load-bearing locking reconstruction plate. Properly executed rigid internal fixation is a great advance in the management of comminuted mandibular fractures with reliable outcomes. The course of treatment is also significantly shortened and leads to more rapid resumption of normal function. Comminuted mandible fractures generally are the result of a significant impact on a localized area of the oromandibular complex and are defined as multiple lines of fracture in one region of the mandible. These complex cases require careful diagnostic and radiographic workup, proper preoperative planning, and technically excellent execution of fracture reduction and fixation. Treatment principles include restoration of proper occlusion with maxillo-mandibular fixation, exposure and alignment of the fracture segments, and ultimate fixation with a load-bearing locking reconstruction plate. Properly executed rigid internal fixation is a great advance in the management of comminuted mandibular fractures with reliable outcomes. The course of treatment is also significantly shortened and leads to more rapid resumption of normal function.