Characterization of mandibular fractures using 64-slice multidetector CT.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to characterize mandibular fracture locations using 64-slice multidetector CT (MDCT). METHODS: CT scans of 138 patients with mandibular fractures who underwent 64-slice MDCT were studied. Mandibular fractures were classified into five types median, paramedian, angle, condylar and coronoid process. Statistical analysis for the relationship between multiple fractures and type of mandibular fractures was performed using χ(2) test with Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: The percentage of multiple mandibular fractures was 80.9% median type, 74.3% paramedian type, 52.9% angle type and 60.9% condylar type. The resultant data showed a significant relationship between multiple fractures and the median type (p = 0.000), paramedian type (p = 0.002) and condylar type (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that multiple fractures are related to the type of mandibular fractures.