Tag Archives: mandibular fracture

Fracture of the Lower Jaw-Part 2

We have discussed the principles of management of fractures in Fracture of the Lower Jaw-Part I. In this article we will be discussing a little in depth regarding the management of Lower jaw fractures, or mandibular fractures.

PRINCIPLES OF MANAGEMENT OF FRACTURES:

  • Reduction of the fracture-Reduction can be done in 2 days: Open Reduction or Closed Reduction, as will be discussed below
  • Fixation & stabilization of the fracture-Direct or Indirect
  • Immobilization of segments at fracture site
  • Occlusion restored-to allow the patient to bite in his original position
  • Infection eradicated/prevented-infection can prevent or delay healing, thus it is of essence that infection be avoided. Continue reading →

Fracture of the Lower Jaw-Part I

Trauma exerted onto the head and neck region can cause a fracture to any of the bones. The lower jaw, or the mandible, is particularly prone to fracture. In this article we will discuss some of the aspects related to fracture of the lower jaw (mandibular fracture).

CAUSES OF JAW FRACTURE (upper or lower):

  • Accidents: Motor-vehicle accidents (MVA), sports injuries, occupational (accidents that occur during work)
  • Falls (eg, falling down the stairs, slipping on a slippery floor)
  • Assault and fights
  • Pathological– a pathology such as tumours or cysts in the jaw bone can cause thinning of the bone or decrease in density of the bone, ultimately leading to fracture of bone in that region, even when a light external force is applied to the bone. Continue reading →

Mandibular fractures Part 2

The effect of muscle action on the fracture fragments is important in classification of mandibular angle and body fractures. Angle fractures may be classified as (1) vertically favorable or unfavorable and (2) horizontally favorable or unfavorable. The muscles attached to the ramus (masseter, temporal, medial pterygoid) pull the proximal segment upward and medially and the symphysis of the mandible is displaced inferiorly and posteriorly by the pull of the digastric, geniohyoid, and genioglossus muscles. Continue reading →

Mandibular fractures Part 1

Mandible fractures are a frequent injury because of the mandible’s prominence and relative lack of support. As with any facial fracture, consideration must be given for the need of emergency treatment to secure the airway or to obtain hemostasis if necessary before initiating definitive treatment of the fracture. Continue reading →