Tag Archives: immobilization

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

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