Maxillomandibular Fixation in Fractures of the Mandible

Abstract

This retrospective study of 59 patients with fractures of the mandible was undertaken to evaluate maxillomandibular fixation. Of the patients treated by rigid fixation, 63.3% achieved clinical union within 4 weeks. Fractures with no mobility were treated by semirigid fixation. Neither of these experienced any complication. It was concluded that most uncomplicated mandibular fractures need no more than 4 weeks of rigid fixation for clinical union, and semirigid fixation is indicated when there is no mobility at the fracture site.