Versatility of Titanium Mesh in Comminuted Maxillofacial Fractures. A Retrospective Study

Background

Titanium mesh provides three-dimensional stability, it is easier and quick in placement, highly malleable and adaptable hence, proved to be worth in restoring the function and form in cases of comminuted maxillofacial fractures.

Materials and Methods

A total of 12 patients were included in this retrospective study at Department of Oral and maxillofacial surgery, Sri Rajiv Gandhi College of Dental Science and Hospital, from December 2015 to June 2020. Out of 12 patients, 7 reported with frontal bone fracture and 5 reported with mandibular fracture. Patients were followed up for upto 18 months to evaluate efficacy of titanium mesh on postoperative long-term healing, aesthetic outcomes and return to normal function were evaluated.

Results

The results have shown that titanium mesh has low complication rates and the ability to maintain occlusion and chewing postoperatively. Union occurred without complication in 90% of fractures, and patients treated for frontal bone fracture had excellent cosmetic results.

Conclusion

The semi rigid nature of the titanium mesh fixation allows micro movement at the healing bone ends, reduces stress shielding effect which may improve functional bone healing. Bony continuity of the mandible can be restored providing three-dimensional morphology and stability. The versatile placement of screws is the principal advantage.

Pediatric Head and Neck Trauma

The pediatric patient population has unique anatomic characteristics that bring challenges and increased risk to management. The purpose of this article is to guide the head and neck trauma surgeon in decision making for the treatment of pediatric head and neck trauma with an emphasis on facial fracture management.

Biomechanical influence of plate configurations on mandible subcondylar fracture fixation: a finite element study

Mandible subcondylar fractures have very high complication rate, yet there is no consensus on suitable plate design for optimal patient outcomes. Our study is aimed at comparing single mini, trapezoid, lambda, strut and double mini plates. A finite-element (FE) model of intact mandible was developed based on healthy CT-scan data, which was further virtually osteotomized and fixated with plates. The cortical and cancellous bones were assigned region-specific orthotropic and heterogenous isotropic material properties respectively. The models were subjected to six load cases representing the mastication cycle. Under opposite lateralities, the tensile and compressive mandibular strain distributions were found as the opposite, with tensile strains at the posterior border under ipsilateral molar clenching (RMOL) resulting in lesser mandibular strain in reconstructed mandible with single mini plate under RMOL but highest mandibular strain under the contralateral molar clenching (LMOL). Owing to the reduced mandibular strains under LMOL than RMOL, the contralateral chewing is preferred during the immediate post-surgery period for patients. Under LMOL, the peak von Mises stresses in the plate decreased with increase in the number of screws. Furthermore, the presence of two arms in double mini and trapezoid plates seems beneficial to neutralise the tensile and compressive strains across load cases.

A Retrospective Study on Profile of Patients with Faciomaxilary Fractures in a Tertiary Care Center

Maxillofacial injuries in general occur quite commonly following trauma and these injuries if not properly managed can negatively influence both the psychosocial and functional activities of the patient. This is as a result of the centrality of the facial region as a key factor in human identity, aesthetics, and general well-being. Fractures involving the facial skeleton may be isolated or complex. High velocity trauma is usually seen in urban and semi-urban areas while low velocity trauma is the common setting in rural areas. The pattern of faciomaxillary fractures vary with geographical area, socioeconomic condition, enforcements of law and order of a country. Trauma to the faciomaxillary region mandates special attention as important sensory systems are contained within the face (e.g. vision, auditory, somatic sensation, gustatory, olfaction and vestibular), also, vital structures in the head and neck region are intimately associated (airway, blood vessels, nerves and gastrointestinal tracts. It should be noted that the treatment outcome of maxillofacial fractures is mainly dependent among other things on the degree of injury, type of fracture, the expertise of the surgeon, and available technology. The aim of this study is to find out the incidence of faciomaxillary injuries resulting from various etiological factor Classification of facial bone fractures; Diagnosis and different treatment modalities. This is a prospective cross sectional study comprising of  75  patients who were having different faciomaxillary fractures and visited to L.G. hospital from December 2020 to April 2022. Patients were evaluated thoroughly by history taking, proper examination and routine investigations. In general examination consciousness, orientation to time, place and person, neck movements, and general mobility of the patients were checked. In local examination- facial oedema, facial asymmetry, skin lacerations, deep cuts, decreased mouth opening, improper teeth occlusion, teeth loss, nasal bleeding, black eye, eyeball movements and redness of eyes were checked. In specialized radiological investigations x- rays, 2D & 3D Computed Tomography (CT) of Facial bones were done in all cases. CT Brain and CT Cervical spine were done in patients if needed. From our study, it seems reasonable to assume that road traffic accident remains the leading cause of faciomaxillary fractures and is closely followed by fall especially among men in their productive years. It is necessary to diagnose faciomaxillary fracture at the earliest to prevent the complications of fractures such as infection and malocclusion, for that thorough clinical examination and radiological investigations are very important. 3D CT face is the gold standard investigation in case of different faciomaxillary fractures. In isolated fractures nasal bone fractures remains the most affected bone of the facial skeleton followed by mandible. Among the different sites of mandibular fractures body of the mandible is the most common site for mandibular fractures.

A Retrospective Study of Maxillofacial Fractures at a Tertiary Care Centre in North India: A Review of 1674 Cases

Objective

To examine the pattern of maxillofacial fractures in patients treated at the SMS Hospital in Jaipur, India, over a two-year period.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted from October 2019 to September 2021, which recorded various data of patients with maxillofacial fractures, including age, sex, site distribution, cause of injury, type of facial bone fractures, soft tissue injuries, dentoalveolar trauma, and type of treatment. The days spent in the hospital before and after surgery were also recorded.

Results

The study included 1674 patients, with a male-to-female ratio of 4.07:1 and males being the most affected at 80.3%. The most common cause of injury was road traffic accidents (53.5%), followed by falls (18.6%) and assaults (16.1%). Mandibular fractures accounted for 38% of all fractures, with the parasymphysis being the most common site for fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) and intermaxillary fixation (IMF) were the most common treatment options for mandibular fractures.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for strict enforcement of traffic rules and road safety laws, along with education and preventive measures to reduce the incidence of maxillofacial trauma. The pattern of maxillofacial injuries can provide useful information for designing programs towards the prevention and management of maxillofacial trauma.

Conservative management of mandibular fractures in pediatric patients during the growing phase with splint fiber and ligature arch wire

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article is to discuss the effective management of mandibular fractures in pediatric patients during the growing phase of the mandible using splint fiber and ligature wire.

METHODS

A retrospective study examined pediatric patients with mandibular fractures who were treated using the splint (Quartz) fiber and ligature wire technique at the Stomatology Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University from August 2021 to January 2023. Data on gender, age, location or site of the fracture, and development of tooth stage were collected from the patient's medical records. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data and evaluate the effectiveness of the splint (Quartz) fiber technique for treating mandibular fractures in pediatric patients.

RESULTS

Out of 256 subjects, 6 pediatric patients with mandibular fractures were selected, resulting in an incidence rate of 2.34% with an equal sex ratio. Mental or symphysis fracture was the most common site for fracture in children, accounting for 100% of cases. Right mandibular angle fracture was observed in 16.7% of patients, while 50% of the group (3 individuals) suffered from left condylar fracture and 16.7% had a bilateral condylar fracture. Treatment with Quartz splint fiber and circumdental arch wiring using ligature wire was successful with no observed post-treatment complications or malocclusion. The splint fiber was worn for 30 days and the circumdental arch wiring was for the same. Healing of bone fracture yields good results after 12 weeks. Follow-up care is crucial to monitor for complications, in this study, no post-treatment complications were observed.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of pediatric mandibular fractures is complex and requires careful consideration of various factors. Conservative management should be the first choice, with open reduction and internal fixation reserved for specific cases. The use of quartz splint fiber and ligature wire is an effective treatment option for stabilizing the mandible and providing occlusal stability in growing children. A fiber splint along with ligature wire can also be used as an alternative treatment to avoid any adverse effects on the growth and development of the mandible and permanent teeth. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to achieving the best outcomes for pediatric patients with mandibular fractures.

Current Trends in Head and Neck Trauma

The practicing otolaryngologist frequently encounters consultation for injuries in the head and neck. Restoration of form and function is essential to normal activities of daily living and quality of life. This discussion intends to provide the reader with an up-to-date discussion of various evidence-based practice trends related to head and neck trauma. The discussion focuses on the acute management of trauma with minor emphasis on secondary management of injuries. Specific injuries related to the craniomaxillofacial skeleton, laryngotracheal complex, vascularity, and soft tissues are explored.

Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of Hybrid Arch Bar with Erich Arch Bar in the Management of Mandibular Fractures: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Study Design

A clinical randomized control trial.

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of Hybrid arch bar (HAB) with Erich arch bar (EAB) in fracture management of the mandible.

Methods

In this randomized clinical trial, 44 patients were divided into 2 groups:- Group 1, N = 23 (EAB group) and Group 2, N = 21 (HAB group). The primary outcome was time taken for the application of arch bar, while the inner and outer glove puncture, operator prick, oral hygiene, arch bar stability, complications of HAB, and cost comparison were secondary outcomes.

Results

The time taken for the application of arch bar in group 2 was significantly shorter than group 1 (55.66 ± 17.869 min vs 82.04 ± 12.197 min) and the frequency of outer glove puncture was also significantly lesser for group 2 (0 punctures vs 9 punctures). Better oral hygiene was found in group 2. EAB was cost-effective than HAB (Rs 700 ± 239.79 vs Rs 1742.50 ± 257.14). The stability of the arch bar was comparable in both groups. Group 2 had associated complications of root injury in 2 out of 252 screws placed and the screw head got covered by soft tissue in 137 out of 252 screws placed.

Conclusions

Thus, HAB was better than EAB with a shorter time of application, less risk of prick injury, and improved oral hygiene.Clinical trial registry name- clinical trials registry- India, URL-http://ctri.nic.in, registration number- CTRI/2020/06/025966.

Reducing Risks for Midface and Mandible Fracture Repair

The midface skeleton provides structural scaffolding to the middle third of the face. Complications associated with fracture repair in these regions can result from incomplete, inaccurate, or delayed assessment, poor initial and subsequent reduction and fixation, infection, uncontrolled hemorrhage, hardware failure and associated soft tissue injuries. A systematic approach to managing the patient with facial trauma that includes Acute Trauma Life Support principles, early reconstruction, and precise reduction and fixation is essential to reducing the short-term and long-term risks of complications.

Traumatic superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysm & management following mandible fracture

A traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the superficial temporal artery is a rare vascular lesion that typically occurs after blunt trauma to the temporal region. It accounts for only 1% of all traumatic aneurysms. These pseudoaneurysms need to be appropriately diagnosed and treated without delay as the patient can experience resulting symptoms of severe headache, facial nerve palsy, arterial bleeding, and/or bone erosion. Diagnosis can typically be made with history of trauma along with physical examination followed by confirmation with ultrasound or computer tomography angiogram. The treatment of choice is ligation and resection. We present a case of a 20-year-old male with identified pseudoaneurysm following facial trauma and mandibular fracture repair treated with multiple trials of sclerotherapy. In addition, this report will review additional management options and diagnosis techniques for superficial temporal artery (STA) pseudoaneurysms.

Effectiveness of adhesive taping to reduce pain, swelling and trismus after fracture mandible surgery

Swelling, pain and trismus constitute the major post-operative morbidity after surgery for mandibular fractures. We assessed the role of kinesio taping in mitigating these. Two groups of 15 patients were compared; those who had such applied to the side of the fracture and a control group of those who did not. Pain, swelling and trismus were assessed pre-operatively, and on the second, third and fifth post-operative days, and found to be significantly less in the study group. This simple technique is therefore effective. It is a simple frugal intervention without any side effects.

Do mandibular titanium miniplates affect the biomechanical behaviour of the mandible? A preliminary experimental study

INTRODUCTION

Whether to conserve or remove titanium miniplates after rigid internal fixation of mandibular fractures still remains controversial. Miniplates could affect the biomechanical behaviour of the mandible in case of trauma, and therefore cause more complex fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An experimental study, consisting in simulating a mandibular trauma, was designed in order to compare the fractures caused by an impact on the mandible in the presence or absence of an internal fixation. We simulated an impact on the right parasymphysis region in 10 post-mortem human subjects, according to the Charpy impact test method at an impact speed of 7.4 m/s, using a 5 kg test impactor.

RESULTS

In the control group, the fracture lines were vertical and straight, without comminution. In the miniplate group, the fractures occurred close to the miniplates (4 cases) and under the miniplates (one case). The fracture lines were more complex, even comminuted in 2 cases. Thus, miniplates impacted the biomechanical behavior of the mandible, resulting in more complex fractures.

CONCLUSION

Our experimental study highlighted the impact of the presence of miniplates on the mandible in case of trauma, and the risk of causing more complex fractures. We therefore recommend further investigations to determine if titanium miniplates should be systematically removed after bone healing, in patients with a higher risk of trauma in relation with previous assault injuries, alcohol or substance abuse, the practice of fighting or contact sport/activities, and soldiers.

Re-evaluating the need for orthopantomography in the management of mandibular trauma: is computed tomography enough?

BACKGROUND

Mandibular fractures are frequent indications for computed tomography (CT) and orthopantomography (OPG) scans in emergency rooms. Numerous studies found CT to have higher sensitivity and enhanced accuracy compared to OPG in diagnosing mandible fractures. Controversy exists regarding additional need for OPG when evaluating dental trauma. This study investigates whether OPG adds diagnostic value to CT in mandibular trauma and whether additional OPG significantly alters management.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review identified 100 patients ≥ 18 years of age with known mandibular trauma who received CT and OPG in the emergency department between May 2015 and January 2020. All patients demonstrated a fracture in at least one study. CT and OPG studies were anonymized and randomized. A single attending surgeon evaluated mandible fracture and dental trauma characteristics and subsequently compared findings.

RESULTS

One hundred patient CT and OPG scans were reviewed. CT detected mandible fractures in all patients and OPG detected fractures in 93% (p = 0.01). Twenty-eight patients had different findings between scans. CT demonstrated 1 or more additional fracture(s) than OPG in 20 patients and dental trauma not seen on OPG in 4. OPG detected 1 fracture and no dental trauma that was not seen on CT. CT drove treatment-determining differences in 17 cases and OPG in 0 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

CT appears efficacious in detecting clinically significant mandible fractures and dental trauma with little additional benefit from OPG in emergency settings. Helical CT may be the only imaging necessary in evaluating patients with such trauma.

Mandibular Body Fractures

Fractures of the mandibular body most commonly occur after interpersonal violence or motorized vehicle accident but can occur in athletes. Mandibular body fractures are often associated with additional mandibular fractures. The treatment goal is to achieve preinjury occlusion and facial appearance, and this can be done via a closed reduction and maxillomandibular fixation or open reduction and fixation with or without maxillomandibular fixation. The authors present 3 cases in this article.

Mandibular Angle Fractures

Angle fractures are the most common among the mandibular fractures. History and physical examination are crucial in guiding time course and specifics of management. Computed tomography (CT) has become the gold standard for diagnosis of mandible fractures, offering advantages for both surgical planning and assessing dental involvement. Currently the use of a single monocortical plate with the Champy technique for osteosynthesis is used preferentially for noncomminuted fractures of the mandibular angle. Other load-sharing options for plating include strut plates, malleable plates, and geometric or 3D plates. Load-bearing options remain viable for comminuted fractures or other complex circumstances.

Use of antibiotics in traumatic mandibular fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The treatment of traumatic mandibular fractures constitutes a significant part of the oral and maxillofacial trauma service's workload. There are potential variations in how they are managed. Patients are often admitted and given intravenous antibiotics prior to their definitive treatment. The evidence behind this is inconclusive. We performed a systematic review as per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidance/ PROSPERO Registered (CRD:42020201398) on the use of antibiotics in the management of mandibular fractures. We identified studies using a search algorithm within the OVID Gateway (including MEDLINE, PubMed, and Cochrane Collaborative). Studies analysing the possible impact of prophylactic antibiotics on traumatic mandibular fractures were eligible. The primary outcome was surgical site infection requiring any treatment beyond the normal postoperative protocol. Secondary outcomes included any complication requiring further intervention. From the 16 studies identified (3,285 patients), seven were randomised controlled clinical trials (RCTs) and nine were retrospective observational studies. We have identified significant between-study variation in choice of antibiotic regimen (timing, dosage, duration) and in reporting both primary and secondary outcomes. There was significant between-study heterogeneity (p = 0.02, I² = 69%) and none of the assessed interventions was found to be superior. The evidence behind the use of prophylactic antibiotics in mandibular fractures is weak. A properly designed and powered RCT is needed, in order to standardise practice for the benefit of patients and healthcare systems.

Maxillofacial trauma in children: Association between age and mandibular fracture site

PURPOSE

To describe the association between age and location of facial fractures in the pediatric population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) from the 2016 Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) in children aged ≤18 years was conducted. International Statistical Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes were used to extract facial fracture diagnoses. Logistic regression was used to evaluate and compare the contribution of various demographic factors among patients who had different types of facial fractures.

RESULTS

A total of 5568 admitted patients were identified who sustained any type of facial bone fracture. Patients who had facial fractures were significantly more likely to be male (68.2% versus 31.8%; p<0.001) and were older with a mean age of 12.86 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.72-12.99). Approximately one-third of patients with a facial fracture had a concomitant skull base or vault fracture. Maxillary fractures were seen in 30.9% of the cohort while mandibular fractures occurred in 36.9% of patients. The most common mandibular fracture site was the symphysis (N=574, 27.9% of all mandibular fractures). Condylar fractures were more common in younger children while angle fractures were more common in teenagers. Regression analysis found that age was the only significant contributor to the presence of a mandibular fracture (β=0.027, p<0.001) and race was the only significant contributor to maxillary fractures (β=-0.090, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Facial fractures increase in frequency with increasing age in children. The mandible was the most commonly fractured facial bone, with an age-related pattern in fracture location.

Surgical planning using facial fracture 3D models: The role of cyanoacrylate glue and miniplating for anatomical reduction

Background

In comminuted facial fractures, peri-operative use of 3D-printed life size models is increasingly a useful adjunct. It allows for preoperative surgical rehearsal and plate bending, to achieve anatomical reduction with reduced operative time and cost. One problem encountered is difficulty contouring the fixation plate whilst maintaining the relative spatial orientation of comminuted fragments. This paper shares an effective method of overcoming this problem.

Methods

All comminuted facial fracture patients underwent counselling for 3D printing. Pre-printing thresholding and segmentation of each fragment (as directed by the surgeon) were done by the radiologist and the engineering team, using the multi-slice CT Face DICOM data. Life-size 3D-resin models of the fractures were printed. Fast-acting medium consistency cyanoacrylate glue (Zap-A-Gap^Ⓡ) and miniplates were used to assemble the printed model segments in ‘anatomic reduction’. Aerosolized alcohol accelerator facilitated immediate glue curing, providing a stable model. The plates were adapted over this restored neonative 3D construct with bending inserts, sterilized and used intraoperatively. The 3D model was used to guide the operative sequence. Intraoperative CT was used in select cases to confirm anatomic reduction.

Results/Complications

All patients (n = 5) had comminuted fractures in at least one of the bony units (mandible, maxilla or orbits) and one was a pan-facial fracture case. 3D printed models aided fracture reduction and fixation, whilst avoiding the guesswork in ascertaining the contour of the mandibular arch. In addition, the pre-contoured mandible plates restored premorbid occlusion and projection, without the need for long-term archbars in all cases. Operative time was estimated to be reduced by 0.5–1 h. Resident teaching was enhanced by this approach.

Conclusion

The application of medium consistency fast-acting cyanoacrylate glue and miniplates facilitated the creation of the premorbid facial skeletal model and allowed pre-bending of the plates, thus saving operative time and cost.

Do mandibular miniplates increase the risk of complex fracture in facial trauma recurrence? Case series

Whether to conserve or remove miniplates, widely used in oral and maxillofacial surgery, has not been agreed on in the literature. Complications such as pain, infection, and screw exposure or loosening have already been largely described. We present the consequences of a trauma recurrence on a mandible with miniplates. The data of 13 patients who had a mandibular fracture previously surgically treated with miniplates (ten mandibular fractures and three mandibular osteotomies) were analysed. All the patients were male; the average age was 32 years (range, 20-64 years). The mechanism of the second trauma was assault in most of the cases. The average time between the first osteosynthesis and the new fracture was 35 months (range, 6-128 months). The fractures occurred at a distance from the miniplates in all the cases except two. No plate fracture was reported. We hypothesised that miniplates reinforced the underlying bone, protecting it from fractures, and transmitted the forces to areas anterior or posterior to the miniplates or to the condyle. Thus, the risk of mandible trauma recurrence should be taken into account in the indication of plate removal, and the biomechanical consequences of the conservation of the miniplates should be studied.

A mechanical study of novel additive manufactured modular mandible fracture fixation plates - Preliminary Study with finite element analysis.✰

The paper presents an innovative osteofixation system designed for bone fracture stabilization. Its special feature, which makes it different from other similar systems, is the possibility to precisely adjust the implant to the shape of the bone. Such a precise adjustment is particularly important in the case of multiple fractures, where proper stabilization is a condition for restoring bone geometry and thus obtaining the biomechanical function of a given segment of the body lost due to fracture. Based on the tested properties of the implant material, the presented system structure was verified for loading, stress, and share forces in multi-site fractures of the mandible. Numerical tests were performed for three different fracture models: unilateral double fracture of the body of mandible, unilateral double fracture of the body and the angle of mandible, and bilateral fracture of the mandible at the angle and body of the mandible. The results indicate that the proposed system may be used to stabilize broken bone fragments successfully, and the obtained stabilization would allow unrestricted use of the chewing function during bone healing and remodeling. The authors point out the advantages of the proposed implantation method thanks to which it is possible to obtain any shape of the implant and thus stabilize bone fragments in any case.

Management of Mandible Fracture by Plating and Wiring: An Otolaryngologist Perspective at Teritiary Care Center

The facial area is one of the most frequently injured parts of the body (Abiose in Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 24(1):319, 1986; Adi et al. in Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 28(3):1949, 1990; Allan and Daly in Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg 19(5):26871, 1990), and the mandible is one of the most commonly fractured maxillofacial bones (1990; Azevedo et al. in J Trauma 45(6):10847, 1998; Bremerich et al. in Acta Stomatol Belg 93:511, 1996). Mandible is the only mobile bone of the skeleton, and hence vulnerable to fracture. This is a retrospective study of 50 mandibular fracture cases managed at the Department of ENT, Govt. Medical College Bhavnagar during the 2 years period from 2014 to 2016. Maximum subjects were in age group 21-30 years with a male preponderance. Road traffic accident is the main cause followed by falls and assault. Symphysis is the most common site of Mandibular fracture. Mandible fracture is a common entity in Road traffic accidents. Multiple fractures are seen in 40% of mandibular fracture cases. The results were equally good in patients requiring only MMF (Maxillo Mandibular Fixation) and inpatients requiring MMF and Plating, during the follow up up to 8 weeks. Physiotherapy was advised for all the post op patients after 2 months.

3-D Miniplates Versus Conventional Miniplates in Treatment of Mandible Fractures

Aim

To study whether the use of 3-D miniplate, when compared with conventional miniplate, gives better clinical outcomes with fewer complications in patients with fracture mandible.

Materials and Methods

A prospective study was conducted in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Trauma Care Centre, on 40 patients. They were randomly divided into Group-I and Group-II with 20 patients in each group. In Group-I, 3-D miniplate was used and in Group-II, conventional miniplate was used. Parameters such as fracture stability, occlusal status, mouth opening, nerve paresthesia, infection, pain, swelling, and complications were evaluated on 1st, 7th postoperative day, 1st month and 3rd month.

Results

Fracture stability and occlusion were clinically better in Group-I than in Group-II on each follow-up; however, it was not statistically significant. Infection rate was lesser in Group-I than in Group-II (p = 0.003). Mouth opening was more in Group-II than in Group-I on immediate (p = 0.001) and 7th post-op day (p = 0.002). Overall complications were lesser in Group-I than in Group-II (p > 0.005).

Conclusion

There is no major difference observed in clinical outcomes between 3-D miniplate and conventional miniplate. Either method of fixation can be used successfully in treatment of mandible fractures with comparable rates of complications.

Superolateral Dislocation of Bilateral Intact Mandibular Condyles: A Rare Case Series

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The dislocation of mandibular condyle is a clinical condition in which the head of condyle has been displaced out of the glenoid fossa. Complete dislocation of the mandibular condyle can occur in anterior, posterior, lateral and superior direction. Among these dislocations, bilateral superolateral dislocation of mandibular condyles is quite rare and often misdiagnosed. Because of its rare occurrence and unusual clinical course, the best treatment is debatable.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

We present the first case series of true bilateral superolateral dislocation of intact mandibular condyles (Type 2B) without fracturing the Zygomatic arch, associated with symphysis fracture.

CONCLUSION

This article intends to provide information regarding the possible biomechanics and management of bilateral superolateral dislocation of mandibular condyles associated with symphysis fracture.

Patient compliance following isolated mandibular fracture repair

OBJECTIVE

Compliance with postoperative care in the maxillofacial trauma population often is considered poor. This lack of follow-up does not seem to be a function of decreased access to care but rather its anticipated lack of utilization. The goal of this study is to identify what factors are associated with increased compliance in postoperative management of mandible fractures.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Using Current Procedural Terminology codes to identify maxillofacial injuries requiring operative repair, a subset of isolated mandibular fractures was identified. Age, gender, race, insurance type, travel distance, mandible fracture location, surgical approach, and complications were used as variables in univariate regression modeling to examine factors associated with compliance to postoperative care.

RESULTS

Between 2010 and 2013, 344 isolated mandible fractures were identified. A total of 83.1% of patients made their first postoperative follow-up visit. Demographic data, fracture location, distance to medical center (odds ratio [OR] = 1, P = 0.75), type of repair, use of drains (OR = 1.27, P = 0.61), or nonabsorbable suture (OR = 1.44, P = 0.32) did not appear to be associated with compliance. No association between complications and postoperative compliance was observed (OR = 2.37, P = 0.17). Trends toward improved compliance were observed when evaluating insurance type and use of temporary fixation hardware. The presence of current tobacco use was found to be negatively associated with patient compliance (OR = 0.33, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Postoperative compliance after surgical repair is better than what is currently represented in the literature. It appears that postoperative compliance is dependent on patient-related factors more so than what can be modified by the surgeon.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2230-2235, 2017.

Management of Mandibular Angle Fractures: Single Stainless Steel Linear Miniplate Versus Rectangular Grid Plate-A Prospective Randomised Study

PURPOSE

This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of stainless steel single linear miniplate with rectangular grid plate in the treatment of mandibular angle fractures.

METHODS

This study included 30 patients who were allocated randomly into two groups of each. Group 1 patients were treated with single 2 mm × 4 hole linear stainless steel miniplate and group 2 patients with 2 mm × 4 hole rectangular grid plate. Patients were evaluated for fracture stability, occlusion, mouth opening, and complications at 1st week, 1 and 3 months post operatively.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two groups with respective variables statistically. In group 1 20 % (n = 3) had mild occlussal derangement 6.66 % (n = 1) patient had deranged occlusion at 1 week post operatively and 13.3 % (n = 2) had mild derangement at 1 month post operatively. In group 2 6.66 % (n = 1) had mild derangement at 1 week postoperatively. 20 % (n = 3) had limited mouth opening at 1 week in group 1 and 13.3 % (n = 2) in group 2. All patients in both groups achieved adequate mouth opening by the end of 3 month. None of the patients in both groups had plate fracture, screw loosening, non union or mal-union.

CONCLUSION

Within the limits of the study, use of rectangular grid plates for fixation of mandibular angle fractures was reliable with low complication rates, easy adaptation and an effective alternative to conventional miniplates. Further clinical studies with larger sample size can derive a more comprehensive conclusion.

Decade review of mandible fractures and arch bar impact on outcomes of nonsubcondylar fractures

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Review trends in mandible fracture management and outcomes in patients treated with and without intraoperative arch bar use.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

METHODS

All patients with mandible fractures between October 1, 2001, and October 1, 2011, were reviewed. Excluded were those with concomitant midfacial fractures or inadequate follow-up.

RESULTS

Overall, 734 patients sustained 1,312 mandible fractures. Assault was the most common etiology. The parasymphyseal, subcondylar, and angle regions were most likely fractured. In total, 85% of patients underwent open-reduction internal-fixation (ORIF). This overall number had no significant annual deviation. However, use of arch bars to achieve intraoperative maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) with ORIF decreased annually, whereas the use of manual reduction with ORIF increased annually. These trends held statistical significance. Outcomes were reviewed in patients with one or two nonsubcondylar fractures by assessing complications of malocclusion, infection, and malunion. In 228 patients meeting criteria, the incidence of complications was 12.9% in those treated using intraoperative arch bars with ORIF and 12.5% in those using manual reduction with ORIF. When assessing individual complications, there was no statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest a shifting trend in mandible fracture management. Our techniques for achieving fracture reduction ideal for ORIF favors manual reduction over the use of arch bars in select cases. We found no statistical increase in the incidence of complications when using manual reduction with ORIF in patients with one and two nonsubcondylar fractures. In appropriately selected cases, manual stabilization of fractured segments is an alternative to using arch bars to achieve intraoperative MMF.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4. Laryngoscope, 126:596-601, 2016.

Comparison of intraoral and extraoral approaches to mandibular angle fracture repair with cost implications

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

The objective of this study was to analyze outcomes of intraoral and extraoral approaches to mandibular angle fractures and provide cost estimates for comparison.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective review from January 2005 to June 2013 was performed of patients who underwent open reduction internal fixation of mandibular angle fractures at a level I trauma center.

METHODS

Patients were treated by three surgical specialties: otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and plastic and reconstructive surgery. Inpatient and outpatient medical records were reviewed for pertinent data including age, gender, duration of follow-up, presence of other mandible fractures, surgical approach, surgical team, operative time, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Of the 155 patients with mandibular angle fractures, 74% underwent open reduction internal fixation through an intraoral approach, whereas 26% of patients were treated with an extraoral approach. The occurrence of any complication was 69.6% in the extraoral group and 39% in the intraoral group (P = 0.009). In propensity-weighted analysis, however, the occurrence of any complication was less frequent in intraoral cases but no longer statistically significant (odd ratio 0.28; 95% confidence interval, 0.08 to 1.02; P = 0.053). Operating room time was significantly shorter with the intraoral approach. We estimate that the intraoral approach directly saves at least $2,900 per case.

CONCLUSION

We recommend the use of an intraoral approach for the repair of mandibular angle fractures when clinically appropriate. This can result in a comparable rate of success, however, with significant cost savings to the health care system.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4. Laryngoscope, 126:591-595, 2016.

Surgical treatment and a unique management of rostral mandibular fracture with cerclage wire in a horse

A 3-year-old Arabian colt was presented for a major gingiva wound at the right rostral part of mandible. After clinical assessments, rostral mandibular fracture was determined. Stabilization of fractured region was achieved via cerclage wire application under general anesthesia. Fixation wires were left in place for 6 weeks. A 3 -month follow up revealed complete fracture healing. The purpose of this case report was to give clinical information about rostral mandibular fractures and treatment of these fractures and nutrition protocol in a horse, as this fracture is of the most common type of jaw fracture sustained by young horses.

A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing 3D and Standard Miniplates in Treatment of Mandibular Symphysis and Parasymphysis Fractures

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of the 3D miniplates to standard miniplates in the osteosynthesis of mandibular symphysis and parasymphysis fractures on the basis of clinical parameters and radiographic evaluation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted to treat consecutive mandibular symphysis and parasymphysis fractures. The patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. The patients underwent osteosynthesis in group A with 3D titanium miniplates and in group B with conventional titanium miniplates. The cause of trauma, the number of days from injury to surgery, average age and gender were all reviewed. The assessment of the patients was done at 1, 3, and 6 weeks and 3 months using the clinical parameters and radiographic evaluation.

RESULTS

Eighty patients with isolated symphysis or parasymphysis fracture met the inclusion criteria. In our study, a statistically significant difference was not found in the clinical parameters such as pain, swelling, infection, paresthesia, hardware failure, and mobility between the fracture segments. Similarly Radiological evaluation did not show any statistically significant difference in reduction between the 2 groups. 3D plates are difficult to adapt and use sometimes, but operative time is less with them in treatment of symphysis and parasymphysis fractures.

CONCLUSION

The use of 3D miniplates for symphysis and parasymphysis fracture fixation was efficacious enough to bear the masticatory load during osteosynthesis of the fracture. Although 3D miniplate system is difficult to adapt and difficult to use in cases of fractures involving the mental nerve, they provide the advantage of less operative time and less implant material in treatment of symphysis and parasymphysis fracture, with clinical results almost similar to those seen with conventional miniplate osteosynthesis.

Inferior alveolar and mental nerve injuries associated with open reduction and internal fixation of mandibular fractures: a Seven Year retrospective study

PURPOSE

To document adverse neurosensory changes in the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) and mental nerve (MN) after surgical mandibular fracture treatment and to identify risk factors associated with these changes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study of patients surgically treated for mandibular fractures. The primary study variable was the postoperative change in IAN/MN neurosensory examination after fracture fixation. Risk factors were categorized as demographic, anatomic, experience of the operator, fracture displacement and number of miniplates placed at each fracture site. Appropriate statistics were computed.

RESULTS

209 patients with 293 fractures were analysed. One hundred twenty fractures (41%) were located between the lingula and mental foramen, and 173 fractures (59%) were located distal to the mental foramen. Two hundred seventeen (41%) were displaced by 5 mm or more. In 38 fractures (13%), the IAN/MN neurosensory status worsened after treatment. In a multivariate model, fracture displacement, operator inexperience and two plate fixation were associated with a statistically significant risk (P ≤ 0.05) for postoperative deterioration of IAN/MN sensation.

CONCLUSION

Fixation with two miniplates, fracture displacement of 5 mm or more and operator inexperience were associated with an increased risk for deterioration of the IAN/MN neurosensory status after treatment of mandibular fractures.

An unusual case of atrophic mandible fracture in a patient with osteogenesis imperfecta and on oral bisphosphonate therapy: Case report

Fractures of severely atrophic (height < 10 mm) edentulous mandibles are infrequent and challenging to manage. Factors such as sclerotic bone and decreased vascularity combined with systemic diseases complicate the management of such fractures. Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders of type I collagen metabolism. Patients with OI characteristically present with histories of long bone fractures, deformities, blue sclerae, and opalescent dentin. However, fractures of the facial skeleton are rare. Bisphosphonate therapy has been proven to effectively reduce the fracture risk in patients with OI. The purpose of this clinical report is to present an unusual case of spontaneous fracture of the atrophic mandible in a patient with OI. Despite open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with miniplate osteosynthesis, the patient developed a second fracture at a screw placement site distal to the first fracture. The patient was successfully treated with ORIF using locking reconstruction plates fixed in the symphyseal and angle regions. Bone healing following ORIF was normal, and no clinical sign of osteonecrosis as a result of bisphosphonate therapy was observed. Patients with OI can present with spontaneous fractures of already weakened mandibles. Although such fractures can be managed with care using established protocols, further research is required to examine the effects of concomitant medication, such as bisphosphonates.

Temporalis muscle morphomics: the psoas of the craniofacial skeleton

BACKGROUND

The psoas muscle has been shown to predict patient outcomes based on the quantification of muscle area using computed tomography (CT) scans. The accuracy of morphomic analysis on other muscles has not been clearly delineated. In this study, we determine the correlation between temporalis muscle mass, psoas muscle area, age, body mass index (BMI), and gender.

METHODS

Temporalis and psoas muscle dimensions were determined on all trauma patients who had both abdominal and maxillofacial CT scans at the University of Michigan between 2004 and 2011. Age, BMI, and gender were obtained through chart review. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the relative relationship between morphomic data of the temporalis and psoas muscles and the ability of such information to correspond with clinical variables, such as BMI, age, and gender.

RESULTS

A total of 646 patients were included in the present study. Among the 249 (38.5%) women and 397 (61.5%) men, the average age was 49.2 y. Average BMI was 27.9 kg/m². Total psoas muscle area directly correlated with mean temporalis muscle thickness (r = 0.57, P < 0.001). There was an indirect correlation between age and psoas muscle area (r = -0.52, P < 0.001) and temporalis muscle thickness (r = -0.36, P < 0.001). Neither psoas nor temporalis measurements correlated strongly with BMI (r = 0.18, P < 0.001; r = 0.14, P = 0.002), although stronger correlations were found in a more "frail," subgroup as defined by a BMI of <20 (r = 0.59, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate that dimensions of the temporalis muscle can be quantified and may serve as a proxy for age. Going forward, we aim to assess the utility of temporalis and psoas morphomics in predicting complication rates among trauma patients admitted to the hospital to predict outcomes in the future.

Versatility of Titanium 3D Plate in Comparison with Conventional Titanium Miniplate Fixation for the Management of Mandibular Fracture

BACKGROUND

In the present study, 20 patients with mandibular fracture were included to evaluate the versatility of titanium 3D plate in comparison with conventional titanium miniplate fixation.

METHODS

The patients were alternatively allocated to either the 3D plate group or Miniplate group. The patients were evaluated for the clinical assessment of mobility after fixation, pre and post-surgical occlusal relationship, adequacy of reduction on post operative radiograph and any post surgical complications.

RESULTS

All 25 fractures in 20 patients were found to be adequately fixed when checked intra-operatively. No post-operative IMF was required in either of the groups. The mean radiographic score at post operative time interval in Miniplate group was found to be 2.80 ± 0.42 and in 3D Plate was found to be 2.90 ± 0.32. The mean radiographic score at 3 months time interval in Miniplate group was found to be 2.70 ± 0.48 and in 3D Plate was found to be 2.70 ± 0.48. Radiolucency at 3 months period was found in 1 patient (10%) in the miniplate group and it was not found in any patients in the 3D plate group. None of the patients in both the groups had complications of non-union or mal-union. In miniplate group, 2 patients (20%) had infections and in 3D plate group 1 patient (10%) had infection. 3 patients in miniplate group had occlusal discrepancies (30%) and 1 patient in 3D plate group had occlusal discrepancies (10%). Overall, complications were found in 6 patients (60%) in miniplate group and 2 patients (20%) in 3D plate group. The data when compared was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The 3D plating system was found to be advantageous over conventional miniplates. It uses lesser foreign material, reduces the operation time and overall cost of the treatment. Thus 3D plate can be used as an alternative to conventional miniplates. The system is reliable and effective treatment modality for mandibular fractures.

A comparison of outcomes between immediate and delayed repair of mandibular fractures

Medical records of patients treated with surgical repair of mandible fractures by the otolaryngology and plastic surgery departments at a level 1 trauma centre were obtained and reviewed. Two study groups were compared: patients treated within 72 h of the injury and those treated after this time period. Patient demographics, time to repair, fracture types, substance abuse history, etiology, surgical management, complications and length of hospital stay were assessed. The complication rate was 41% (n=7) within the immediate group and 38% (n=6) within the delayed group (P=0.56). Complications were prevalent in patients with history of substance abuse in both groups. Complication rates did not increase when repair of mandible fractures was delayed beyond 72 h, while substance abuse was a factor in increasing complications rates. Outpatient triage with elective repair of isolated mandibular fractures appears to be more cost-effective than admission with inpatient management.

Identification of mandibular fracture epidemiology in Canada: Enhancing injury prevention and patient evaluation

BACKGROUND

Mandibular fractures can lead to significant functional and aesthetic sequelae if treated improperly. They may act as an indicator of concomitant trauma and are very demanding on the public health care system. Thus, knowledge of mandibular fracture epidemiology is critical to effective prevention, as well the establishment of accurate trauma evaluation protocols.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the epidemiology of mandibular fractures treated at a level 1 Canadian trauma centre, clarify the pathogenesis of these epidemiological patterns and suggest potential targets for preventive efforts.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all mandibular fracture patients presenting to the Montreal General Hospital between 1998 and 2003 was performed. Medical records and digitized radiographic imaging were used to collect patient demographics and injury data.

RESULTS

The chart review identified 181 patients with 307 mandibular fractures. Fifty-two per cent of the fractures occurred in individuals 21 to 40 years of age, 78% of patients were male, and there was wide ethnic diversity. Sixty percent of patients had multiple mandibular fractures; 29% were symphyseal/parasymphyseal fractures, 25% were condylar fractures and 23% were angle fractures. Assault was the most common mechanism of injury, with 29% of fractures involving alcohol or illegal drug use. Thirty percent of patients had an associated facial fracture, and more than one-third had another major injury.

CONCLUSIONS

The present epidemiological review reveals several potential prevention targets as well as significant trends. Further research into the impact of these preventive measures could more objectively identify their impact on mandibular trauma.

Post traumatic malocclusion and its prosthetic treatment

Mandible fractures belong to the most common fractures encountered in maxillofacial trauma. Because mandible is such a unique structure with hinge joint and masticatory muscles attached to the body of mandible, attention must be paid to avoid displacement during treatment. Displacement during fracture reduction leads to malocclusion. Many TMJs function with complete comfort and apparent normalcy in adapted centric posture, even though they have undergone deformation caused by trauma. This clinical report describes the patient with post traumatic malocclusion and its prosthetic treatment. His fractured mandible was openly reduced in changed position, as a result his occlusion has been changed. He was treated by prosthetic method in so-called adapted centric posture.