Treatment of delayed complex malhealed jaw fractures in 32 patients
Guo, Z.-z.; Yang, X.; Sun, H.; Guo, C.-f.; Li, H.-q.
Shanghai Kou Qiang Yi Xue 13(5): 435-436
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 1006-7248 PMID: 15514876 Document Number: 567079
Three methods were used to manage delayed complex malhealed jaw fractures in 32 patients. The indication for each method and final result was evaluated. Three methods included conservative therapy, internal fixation and orthognathic surgery. In conservative therapy, intermaxillary fixation was obtained with dental arch splints. In internal fixation, ordinary operation was performed including open exposure of the fractured segments, anatomical reposition and rigid fixation with steel wire or titanium miniplates. In some patients, orthognathic surgery was carried out with intermaxillary ligation for 2 to 3 weeks postoperatively. All the wounds healed primarily without significant complications. The postoperative occlusion and appearance were satisfactory or fair. The selection of treatment methods should be based on the location, time, severity of the fracture and the patients' age, in order to achieve maximal recovery of mastication and appearance.