The effectiveness of photobiomodulation therapy on inferior alveolar nerve injury: A systematic review and META-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this META-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy in the treatment of inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury due to orthognathic surgeries, extraction of impacted third molars and mandibular fractures. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A electric search was conducted by a combination of manual search and four electric databases including Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane library and Web of Science, with no limitation on language and publication date. Gray literature was searched in ClinicalTrials.gov and googlescholar. All retrieved articles were imported into ENDNOTE software (version X9) and screened by two independent reviewers. All analysis was performed using the REVMAN software (version 5.3). RESULTS: Finally, 15 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria for qualitative analysis and 14 for META-analysis from 219 articles. The results showed that PBM therapy had no effect on nerve injury in a short period of time (0-48h, 14 days), but had significant effect over 30 days. However, the effect of photobiomodulation therapy on thermal discrimination was still controversial, most authors supported no significant improvement. By calculating the effective rate of PBM, it was found that there was no significant difference in the onset time of treatment, whether within or over 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this META-analysis show that PBM therapy is effective in the treatment of IAN injures no matter it begins early or later. However, due to the limited number of well-designed RCTs and small number of patients in each study, it would be necessary to conduct randomized controlled trials with large sample size, long follow-up time and more standardized treatment and evaluation methods in the future to provide more accurate and clinically meaningful results.

Emergency versus semi-elective management of mandible fractures: a Maxillofacial Trainee Research Collaborative (MTReC) study.

INTRODUCTION: Recent evidence suggests that acute emergency management of mandible fractures does not improve surgical outcomes yet is associated with increased financial burden. Current NHS policy advocating for increased adoption of day-case and semi-elective surgical procedures to reduce bed strain must be balanced with providing timely, effective treatment. Our research aims to determine patient groups currently managed via semi-elective admission and whether this can be extended to other groups to provide safe and effective management of mandible fractures. METHODS: A multi-national trainee-led audit of mandibular fractures across 49 units was completed by the Maxillofacial Trainee Research Collaborative (MTReC). Each unit prospectively collected data on fractures on admission and at follow-up. Data collected included patient demographics, behaviour, health, injury, timing to intervention and surgical complications. RESULTS: Data were collected on 947 mandibular fractures. Of the surgically managed patients, 649 (90%) were managed via acute emergency admission at the time of presentation, while 68 (10%) were managed semi-electively. Patient demographics, injury pattern and mechanism appeared to significantly affect timing of management, whereas patient behaviour, health status, timing of injury and presentation did not. Semi-elective management was associated with a significantly shorter inpatient duration (0.9 versus 1.9 days, p=0.000) with no differences in readmission, antibiotic usage or surgical complications (p=1.000, RR 1.030). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates the efficacy of planned admissions and semi-elective management of mandibular fractures. Simple mandibular fractures in compliant patients are suitable for semi-elective treatment. Holistic patient assessment and tailored surgical planning is crucial in determining admission modality to effectively manage mandibular trauma.

Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Fractures: A Meta-Analysis.

Background: Although numerous studies have reported the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in promoting and enhancing bone healing, many orthopedic physicians remain skeptical of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of fractures. The objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of PRP in the treatment of fractures. Methods: We search for research on PRP treatment of fractures in Pubmed, Embase, Medline, and Cochrane libraries. Two independent reviewers assessed included studies and met to develop a consensus on included studies. We also assessed the risk of bias using Review Manager 5.3 software. Results: The present meta-analysis included 10 randomized controlled trials (RCT) containing 652 patients. In the fixed-effect meta-analysis of 10 RCTs, 8 RCTs found that fracture patients benefited from PRP treatment. The use of PRP reduced the time of fracture healing in 4 RCTs. Three RCTs found that PRP adjuvant therapy enhanced bone mineral density in the fracture trace and reduced the time of bone regeneration in mandibular fractures patients (standardized mean difference (SMD) = -1.99, 95%confidence interval (CI) = -2.64--1.35). And 3 RCTs found that PRP adjuvant therapy decreased the risk of revision surgery in fracture patients (SMD = 1.83, 95%CI = 1.10-3.04). Conclusion: PRP adjuvant therapy is beneficial for the treatment of fracture patients, particularly those with mandibular fractures, and decreased the risk of revision surgery in fracture patients.

Effect of delayed photobiomodulation therapy on neurosensory recovery in patients with mandibular nerve neurotmesis following traumatic mandibular fracture: A randomized triple-blinded clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: There is a possibility of neurotmesis of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in mandibular fractures, which leads to neurosensory impairment. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in patients with neurotmesis following trauma and mandibular fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This triple-blind randomized trial was carried out on patients who suffered neurotmesis of the IAN following mandibular angle and body fracture at least for 6 months. In the intervention group, laser irradiation was applied with a low-level GaAlAs diode laser (continuous wave of 810 nm wavelength, power of 200 mW, and energy density of 12-14 J/cm2). In the control group, the laser probe was turned off and placed on the affected area. LLLT was done for 12 sessions (2 times/week for 6 weeks). Light touch sensations, two-point discrimination, thermal discrimination (cold and warm stimulus), electric pulp test (EPT), and oral health impact profile (OHIP)-14 questionnaire were performed before the intervention, immediately after each PBMT session, and after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. RESULTS: In both groups, 3 and 23 patients were female and male, respectively. The results showed significantly improved light (cotton swab), light (wooden cotton swab), and sharp (dental needle) touch sensations, and two-point discrimination test in the PBMT group after the 10th, 11th, 10th, and 10th session, respectively. Two-way repeated measure ANOVA revealed that the trend of light touch sensation with cotton swab and two-point discrimination test was statistically significant (p-value = 0.002 and 0.001, respectively). The results of OHIP-14 test showed a significantly higher mean in the PBMT group 3 months after PBMT. There was no statistically significant difference in EPT and thermal discrimination tests regarding the patients' group. CONCLUSION: PBMT could be an effective treatment for late post-traumatic nerve neurotmesis following a traumatic mandibular fracture.

Effect of oral exercises and photobiomodulation therapy in the rehabilitation of patients with mandible fractures: randomized double-blind clinical trial.

Mandible fractures compromise stomatognathic functions, requiring rehabilitation. Evaluate the effectiveness of photobiomodulation (PBM) associated with oral exercises for rehabilitation of patients with mandible fractures. In this randomized clinical trial, we compared PBM with PBM sham in 14 adults with mandibular fractures who underwent surgical intervention. The sessions were performed 24 h and 48 h after surgical procedure, and weekly for 4 weeks after hospital discharge. Both groups performed oral exercises after each PBM session. Restriction of food consistencies, mandibular mobility, pain, and facial sensitivity measured before and after the surgical procedure were the outcomes evaluated, one and 3 months after surgery. Maximum interincisal distances (MID), exercise pain, and restriction of food consistencies were also evaluated during each week of intervention. Both groups showed normal MID (> 35 mm) and food consistencies consumed 1 month after the surgical procedure, with no significant differences between them. Individuals in the PBM group had less pain response to exercise during all the weeks of intervention than the sham group (p < 0.05). The patients presented a reduction in the painful response in MID and mandibular laterality movements 1 month after surgery compared to the preoperative period. In contrast, there was an improvement in laterality in the sham group only 3 months postoperatively and persistent pain in MID. There was no significant difference in facial sensitivity within and between groups during follow-up. The performance of oral exercises associated with PBM effectively facilitated the early rehabilitation of oral functions, with significant gains in pain management.

Extraoral approach to a bilateral unfavourable mandibular fracture under local anaesthesia: A case report.

OBJECTIVE: To present a feasible treatment method for fractures of severely atrophic mandibles in high-risk patients undergoing general anaesthesia (GA). CASE REPORT: A 77-year-old man presented with bilateral unfavourable fractures in an atrophic mandible. Pre-anaesthetic consultation revealed that the patient was at high risk for GA due to significant medical comorbid conditions of the patient, such as advanced age, chronic obstructive respiratory disease, diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis. Thus, a modified treatment, consisting of open reduction and internal fixation using a combination of reconstruction plates and miniplates via an extraoral approach, was planned under local anaesthesia. The patient tolerated the surgical procedure well, without the need for sedation, and uneventful healing was achieved during postoperative period. CONCLUSION: Local anaesthesia may be considered as the anaesthetic technique of choice when managing atrophic mandible fractures to reduce the risk of complications and shorten the time needed for recovery, especially in elders with significant medical comorbidities.

Does Open Reduction and Internal Fixation Provide a Quality-of-Life Benefit Over Traditional Closed Reduction of Mandibular Condyle Fractures?

PURPOSE: This study sought to estimate patient-reported outcomes and compare quality-of-life (QOL) measures between patients electing for either open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) or closed reduction with intermaxillary fixation (CRIMF). PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with unilateral condyle fractures who had undergone either ORIF or CRIMF at the New York University Tisch Hospital and Bellevue Hospital Center. The primary study predictor was treatment choice (ORIF or CRIMF). Other study predictors were patient age, gender, and the presence of any other coexisting facial fractures. The 9 study outcomes were derived from an 11-item postoperative QOL questionnaire evaluating self-reported perceptions of pain and function. Univariate comparisons and multivariate regression models were calculated. RESULTS: A total of 38 patients (21 CRIMF and 17 ORIF) comprised the study sample. All patients were eligible for either ORIF or CRIMF, and the choice of treatment was decided through shared decision making after a comprehensive discussion of risks and benefits. With respect to pain outcomes, patients who underwent ORIF reported lower overall pain scores at 2 weeks (P < .01) and 2 months (P = .01), less mastication pain at 3 months (P = .01), and a lower rate of persistent headaches after 6 weeks (P = .04). With respect to functional outcomes, patients who underwent ORIF reported better range of motion at 3 months (P = .01), less treatment-related weight loss (P = .01), and more ease when performing physical (P < .01) and work-related (P < .01) activities. In the multivariate regression models, ORIF was independently associated with decreased pain at 2 weeks (P < .01) and decreased difficulty in obtaining nutrition (P < .01), performing physical activities (P = .02), and performing work-related activities (P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: Patients who underwent ORIF appeared to experience subjective favorable pain and functional QOL outcomes. Given the clinical controversy, the choice of treatment should synthesize patient-reported outcomes and be approached through shared decision making.

Effect of pulsed electromagnetic field on mandibular fracture healing: A randomized control trial, (RCT).

INTRODUCTION: Currently, the pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) method is utilized for the treatment of nonunion long bone fractures. Considering the established effect of the PEMF on the acceleration of the bone healing process, we conducted this study to evaluate the effect of PEMF on the healing process in mandibular bone fractures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This research was a randomized control trial (RCT) study. The sample consisted of patients with a mandibular fracture who were hospitalized in order to receive closed reduction treatment. The participants were randomly selected and then sequentially divided into two groups of 16 participants each (controls = 16, cases = 16). The patients in the control group received conventional therapy without any extra treatment, while the patients in the case group received PEMF therapy in addition to conventional therapy. For the PEMF therapy, patients in the case group received immediate post-surgery PEMF therapy for 6 h. Next, they received 3 h of exposure for the next 6 d, and finally, the same process was repeated for 1.5 h for post-surgery days 8-13. The maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) device was removed at post-surgery week 4. The patients in the control group, however, did not receive any extra treatment. The efficiency of the treatment modalities was evaluated clinically and radiographically. For the radiographical assessment, we employed a direct digital panoramic machine to calculate the computerized density of the bone, and those measurements were used for comparison of the results between the control group and the study patients. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the mean bone density values between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, the percentage of changes in bone density of the two groups revealed that the case group had insignificant decreases at post-surgery day 14 and a significant increase at post-surgery day 28 compared with the control group (P < 0.05). After releasing the MMF, a bimanual mobility test of the fractured segments showed the stability of the segments in all patients. In the case group, the mouth opening was significantly more stable than that of the control group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PEMF therapy postoperatively leads to increased bone density, faster recovery, increased formation of new bone, a further opening of the mouth, and decreased pain.

Surgical Management of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures Under Local Anesthesia: A Proposed Protocol.

PURPOSE: The optimal treatment for adult mandibular condylar fractures (MCFs) has largely shifted in favor of open reduction and rigid internal fixation. However, a sizeable portion of these injuries are still being treated in a closed manner based on old literature, convenience, results deemed acceptable, and lesser associated morbidity. Most MCFs with multiple associated facial traumas are appropriately treated under general anesthesia (GA). However, some selected isolated MCFs or those with minimal associated mandibular or low midfacial fractures can be treated optimally with patients under local anesthesia following a protocol presented in this article, thus expediting and simplifying their management. The purpose of this study was to develop a safe, sound, effective protocol for routine surgical management of mandibular subcondylar fractures under local anesthesia. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We carried out a prospective clinical study to assess the feasibility of operating on MCFs with patients under local anesthesia. Seven patients with MCFs and other associated facial fractures underwent surgery after careful case selection following our proposed protocol. The outcome variables were 1) duration of the procedure, 2) intraoperative pain assessed by a visual analog scale, 3) fracture reduction assessed by measuring the preoperative and postoperative average fracture gap, 4) presence of malocclusion preoperatively and postoperatively, 5) deviation on mouth opening, and 6) maximal mouth opening. RESULTS: The mean duration of the procedure was 35.14 minutes, and the mean rating of intraoperative pain or discomfort was 0.57 as reported on the visual analog scale by the patients. Mean mouth opening improved from 17.1 to 40.5 mm, whereas deviation on opening improved from 4.4 to 0.28 mm. The average fracture gap was reduced from 6.32 to 0.97 mm. CONCLUSIONS: The presented protocol is a straightforward, efficient, safe, cost-effective tool for operating on MCFs, avoiding GA with its attendant risks and complications, that can be used routinely, as well as in patients for whom GA is deemed unsuitable.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy as an Adjunct for Treating an Individual with Poorly Healing Bilateral Mandibular Fractures Suspect of Developing Towards Osteomyelitis: A Case Report and Clinical Experience.

PURPOSE: To present a case that benefited from utilizing hyperbaric oxygen therapy in conjunction with antibiotics for a non-healing mandibular fracture that was highly suspicious of osteomyelitis. Also, to discuss research set forth by Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society that supports the use hyperbaric oxygen in such cases. CASE: A 25-year-old male status post fist to face resulting in bilateral mandibular fracture. He underwent two surgeries in an attempt to plate the fracture with the assistance of a bone graft. After failure of the bone graft and significant soft tissue wound breakdown, the surgeon was concerned for osteomyelitis and began therapy with intravenous antibiotics and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. CONCLUSION: The patient completed 30 hyperbaric oxygen treatments and 30 d of intravenous antibiotics. Clinically, the patient responded well and showed healed intraoral wounds and an objective decrease in erythrocyte sedimentation rate over the course of treatment. Unfortunately, on serial imaging the patient showed to have fibrous non-bony union of left fracture site. Even though the patient will need a final definitive plate for his fracture, it will be performed from an extraoral approach with no evidence of underlying infection.

Evaluation of the Effect of Phototherapy in Patients with Mandibular Fracture on Mandibular Dynamics, Pain, Edema, and Bite Force: A Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of phototherapy on bite force, facial swelling, mandibular movements, and pain in patients having undergone surgical treatment for mandibular fractures. BACKGROUND: These are among the predominant types of facial fractures, and treatment involving surgical fixation with titanium plates is one of the most common procedures in oral-maxillofacial surgery. Phototherapy has been used to accelerate the muscle healing process and significantly improves muscle regeneration by inducing the formation of new muscle fibers. METHODS: The patients were divided into two groups: Group 1-active phototherapy, and Group 2-sham phototherapy. Both groups underwent the surgical procedure by the same surgeon using the same surgical technique. Dosimetric parameters are wavelength, 660 nm; power, 108 mW; radiant energy, 21.6 J; fluency, 21.6 J/cm2; radiance, 38197 mW/cm2; exposure time, 200 sec per point, 10 points bilaterally. Photobiomodulation was performed in 15 sessions. RESULTS: The primary variable was bite force measured with a gnathodynamometer and the secondary variables were facial swelling, mandibular movements (measured with digital calipers), and pain. The Student's t-test was used to determine intergroup differences. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest improvements in the laser group in comparison with the sham group with regard to mandibular dynamics, a reduction in postoperative facial swelling, a reduction in pain, and an increase in bite force.

Platelet-rich plasma and its effect in bone regeneration in mandibular fractures. Controlled clinical trial / Plasma rico en plaquetas y su efecto en la regeneración ósea en fracturas mandibulares. Ensayo clínico controlado

Background: Currently there is great interest in developing clinical applications of platelet-rich plasma to enhance bone repair. Aim: To assess bone regeneration in mandibular fractures, with the application of this adjuvant. Methods: Twenty patients with mandibular fractures were included in a randomized clinical trial. Patients of the experimental group (n = 10) were submitted to internal fracture reduction and administration of platelet-rich plasma, and patients of the control group (n = 10) were submitted to the same surgical procedure without plasma application. Radiologic assessment was made before and at 1 and 3 months after surgery. X-rays were digitalized for analyze intensity and density as reflection of bone regeneration. Results: The average age was 32 ± 11.3 years and 31.2 ± 8.48 years respectively (p = 0.76). The radiographic intensity and density in the experimental group at the 1st and 3rd month were higher in contrast to the control group (p < 0.005). Bone regeneration time was 3.7 ± 0.48 and 4.5 ± 0.52 weeks respectively (p = 0.002). There was no morbidity related to the application of the platelet-rich plasma. Conclusion: The platelet-rich plasma increased the bone intensity and density in the fracture trace allowing bone regeneration and recovery in shorter time than patients in which it was not used.

Antecedentes: Actualmente existe interés en el desarrollo de aplicaciones clínicas del plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) para mejorar la regeneración ósea (RO). Objetivo: Evaluar la RO en fracturas mandibulares con la aplicación de PRP. Métodos: Ensayo clínico controlado. Se incluyeron 20 pacientes con fractura de ángulo mandibular. El grupo de estudio (n = 10) se sometió a reducción de la fractura, fijación interna y aplicación de PRP, y el grupo control (n = 10) al mismo procedimiento sin administración de plasma. Se evaluaron en el preoperatorio y al primer y tercer mes posterior a la reducción mediante digitalización radiográfica para evaluar la regeneración ósea. Resultados: El promedio de edad fue de 32 ± 11.3 y 31.2 ± 8.48 años, respectivamente (p = 0.76). La intensidad y la densidad radiográfica al mes y a los 3 meses fueron superiores en el grupo de estudio que en el grupo control (p< 0.005). El tiempo de regeneración fue de 3.7 ± 0.48 y 4.5 ± 0.52 semanas, respectivamente (p = 0.002). Conclusiones: El PRP aumentó la intensidad y la densidad ósea en el trazo de las fracturas, sugestivas de RO, y recuperación en menor tiempo, en contraste con el grupo control.

The Influence of Ethanolic Extract of Brazilian Green Propolis Gel on Hygiene and Oral Microbiota in Patients after Mandible Fractures.

Maintenance of proper oral hygiene by dental plaque elimination is one of the most important factors affecting the healing process in postoperative oral wounds. Propolis is a substance produced by bees. Ethanolic extract of propolis has bactericidal, fungicidal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative properties. Moreover, it can scavenge free radicals. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the efficacy of a gel containing 3% of ethanolic extract of Brazilian green propolis (EEP-B) when used for maintaining oral hygiene in patients with postoperative oral mucosal wounds. The hygiene was assessed using API, OHI, and SBI followed by microbiological examinations. The patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of those who used a gel containing EEP-B for oral hygiene, and group 2 consisted of those who used a gel without EEP-B. Although improved oral hygiene was noted in both groups, the improvement was markedly greater in the group using gel containing EEP-B. Summing up the results of microbiological examinations, EEP-B has beneficial effect on mouth microflora in postoperative period. Propolis preparations used for oral hygiene allow eliminating microorganisms of pathogenic character and physiological flora microorganisms considered as being opportunistic, with no harmful influence on physiological microflora in oral ecosystem.

The Use of Topical Lidocaine Gel During Intermaxillary Fixation Procedure.

This study aimed to validate the usefulness of lidocaine gel during intermaxillary fixation using arch bars in patients with mandible fracture by comparing 2 patient groups: one group using lidocaine gel in intermaxillary fixation and the other group undergoing traditional local infiltration.Subjects were patients with mandible fracture undergoing intermaxillary fixation using arch bars from March 2003 to February 2007. Twenty-three patients were anesthetized in the upper and lower gingiva by 2% local lidocaine solution injection; another 23 underwent topical anesthesia with 2% lidocaine hydrochloride gel applied to the upper and lower gingiva. The convenience of fixation was measured in terms of operation time and degree of pain according to the visual analog scale; arch bar loosening rate was assessed postoperatively.The mean operation times were 63 and 47 minutes in the groups undergoing local infiltration and using topical lidocaine gel, respectively. For pain degree according to the visual analog scale, the mean scores were 6.4 and 3.2 in the groups using local infiltration and topical lidocaine gel, respectively. When the arch bar loosening rate was measured postoperatively, the 2 groups differed significantly, with a rate of 26% in the group using local infiltration and 13% in the group using topical lidocaine gel.Application of topical lidocaine gel during intermaxillary fixation using arch bars in patients with mandible fracture relieves pain and offers convenience in performing the procedure. It can be a useful alternative method for patients who are sensitive to pain or have needle phobia.

Quantified diagnostic work-up casts: applications for interdisciplinary treatment planning.

Diagnostic casts that accurately replicate a patient's occlusion are essential for planning comprehensive care and interdisciplinary treatment. These casts can reveal the actual problem in the spatial relationship between the maxilla and the mandible, which may not be apparent on intraoral examination. Duplicate casts can be altered and measured to quantify the extent of the correction necessary for a predictable result. Treatment planning for interdisciplinary cases requires thorough evaluation of the entire problem and solution set as well as coordination of all procedures. Severe problems and invasive treatments require precise treatment planning. This case report illustrates these principles through multiple applications of quantified diagnostic work-up casts for a patient requiring orthognathic surgery, orthodontics, and occlusal adjustment after a mandibular subcondylar fracture.

Adding Injury to Insult: A National Analysis of Combat Sport-Related Facial Injury.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: To estimate the incidence of patients presenting to emergency departments (EDs) for facial trauma sustained from participation in combat sports and evaluate injury patterns and patient demographics. METHODS: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) was evaluated for facial injuries from wrestling, boxing, and martial arts leading to ED visits from 2008 to 2013. Relevant entries were examined for injury mechanism, location, type, as well as other patient characteristics. RESULTS: There were 1143 entries extrapolating to an estimated 42 395 ED visits from 2008 to 2013. Injury rates for boxing, marital arts, and wrestling were, respectively, 44, 56, and 120 injuries per 100 000 participants. Males comprised the majority (93.7%). A plurality of injuries involved lacerations (46.0%), followed by fractures (26.2%) and contusions/abrasions (19.3%). The proportion of fractures was highest among boxers (36.9%). Overall, the most common mechanisms of injury were punching, kicking, and head butting. CONCLUSIONS: The significant number of ED visits resulted from combat sports facial trauma, reinforcing the importance of familiarity with injury patterns among practitioners managing facial trauma. As most injuries involve individuals younger than 19 despite guidelines suggesting children and adolescents avoid combat sports, these findings may be used for patient education and encouragement of the use of personal protective equipment. Furthermore, injury patterns reported in this analysis may serve as an adjunct for enhancing clinical history taking and physical examination.

An Alternative Method of Intermaxillary Fixation for Simple Pediatric Mandible Fractures.

PURPOSE: Mandibular fractures represent a substantial portion of facial fractures in the pediatric population. Pediatric mandibles differ from their adult counterparts in the presence of mixed dentition. Avoidance of injury to developing tooth follicles is critical. Simple mandibular fractures can be treated with intermaxillary fixation (IMF) using arch bars or bone screws. This report describes an alternative to these methods using silk sutures and an algorithm to assist in treating simple mandibular fractures in the pediatric population. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed and the records of 1 surgeon were examined. Pediatric patients who underwent treatment for a mandibular fracture in the operating room from 2011 to 2015 were identified using Common Procedural Terminology codes. Data collected included age, gender, type of fracture, type of treatment used, duration of fixation, and presence of complications. RESULTS: Five patients with a mean age of 6.8 years at presentation were identified. Fracture types were unilateral fractures of the condylar neck (n = 3), bilateral fractures of the condylar head (n = 1), and a unilateral fracture of the condylar head with an associated parasymphyseal fracture (n = 1). IMF was performed in 4 patients using silk sutures, and bone screw fixation was performed in the other patient. No post-treatment complications or malocclusion were reported. Average duration of IMF was 18.5 days. CONCLUSIONS: An algorithm is presented to assist in the treatment of pediatric mandibular fractures. Silk suture fixation is a viable and safe alternative to arch bars or bone screws for routine mandibular fractures.

Long-term results of ORIF of condylar head fractures of the mandible: A prospective 5-year follow-up study of small-fragment positional-screw osteosynthesis (SFPSO).

BACKGROUND: Optimum treatment of condylar head fractures (CHF) remains subject to controversy. There are currently a variety of alternative techniques applied, data in literature are often inconsistent and especially systematic long-term data on results after treatment by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) have so far not been available. This study in hand is the first long-term prospective study of ORIF after CHF based on osteosynthesis with 1.7 mm small-fragment positional screws (SFPSO)via a retroauricular transmeatal approach (RA). METHODS: The study made use of radiologic, anatomic and objective functional parameters (axiography and MRI) to assess vertical height, disk mobility, protrusive and translatory movement as well as potential physical complaints. Included were surgical long-term sequelae after RA, such as incidence of stenosis of the auditory canal, the facial nerve and resulting disturbance of facial skin sensitivity. Retroauricular scars were evaluated according to the Vancouver Scar Scale. Helkimo and RDC/TMD indices were applied for patient's self-assessment of quality of life aspects after ORIF via RA. The sample in the first follow-up trial (FFT) in the years 2003-2004 comprised 26 patients (36 CHF). 22 patients (31 CHF) were re-evaluated in a second follow-up trial (SFT) between 2006 and 2008. A reference collective (43 patients, 56 CHF) treated with ORIF from 1993 to 2000 mainly by mini- or microplates (MMP) served as a surgical control group. RESULTS: Five years after ORIF all fractured condyles (FC) continued to show stable anatomic restoration of the pre-trauma vertical height. FC treated with SFPSO exhibited a significantly superior range of motion (p < 0.05) of disk and condyle during mouth opening and protrusion compared to a previous MMP reference collective. Also, no difference was found between condylar mobility of FC five years after surgery and non-fractured condyles (NFC). SFPSO had thus successfully achieved a sustainable, stable physiological restoration of protrusive mobility of the articular disk and condyle. Remarkably, these long-term results were even slightly better in SFT vs. FFT (p < 0.05). Except for sporadically occurring minor complaints, the patients' subjective overall long-term perception of the success of the treatment was equally positive to the surgeons' objective assessment. CONCLUSIONS: This first long-term prospective follow-up study, based on objective assessment tools, demonstrates that in all cases the major goals of ORIF in CHF could be fully achieved. These goals are: restoration of vertical height viz. prevention of occlusal disorders, physiological function of disk and condyle as well as of the lateral pterygoid muscle. Accordingly, ORIF of CHF e.g. with SFPSO and via the RA secures both a long-term functionally and anatomically stable result and as best as possible pain-free result for the patient, a central prerequisite of optimum perceived HRQoL. The paper has been amended by an extensive review part that covers the current knowledge of the major surgical aspects regarding the treatment of condylar head fractures.

Comparison of intermaxillary fixation screw versus eyelet interdental wiring for intermaxillary fixation in minimally displaced mandibular fracture: a randomized clinical study.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present randomized study was to evaluate the efficacy of intermaxillary fixation screw (IMFS) versus eyelet interdental wiring for intermaxillary fixation (IMF) in minimally displaced mandibular fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 50 patients with a minimally displaced mandibular fracture were enrolled, with 25 patients randomly selected for each group. In group I (study group, n = 25), the patients were treated using IMFS, and in group II (control group, n = 25), they received eyelet interdental wiring. Both techniques were assessed for the following parameters: time required for placement and removal of each type of IMF technique, time required for placement of IMF wires, postoperative occlusion, stability of the IMF wire, local anesthesia requirement during removal of each fixation type, oral hygiene status, glove perforation rate, and complications associated with both techniques. The collected data were analyzed using Student's unpaired t test or χ2 test. P < .05 was considered significant and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences software, version 10, was used for analysis. RESULTS: The average time required for placement in groups I and II was 17.56 and 35.08 minutes, respectively (P = .000). The time required for placement of the IMF wire in group I was 2.1 minutes and in group II was 6 minutes. The oral hygiene status was assessed, and the mean plaque index score for groups I and II was 1.44 and 2.12, respectively (P = .00). The glove perforation rate was much less in group I than in group II. Finally, the most common complication in both groups was mucosal growth. CONCLUSIONS: The results established the supremacy of IMFS compared with eyelet interdental wiring. Thus, we have concluded that IMFS, in the present scenario, is a safe and time-saving technique. IMFS is a cost-effective, straightforward, and viable alternative to cumbersome eyelet interdental and other wiring techniques for providing IMF, with satisfactory occlusion during closed reduction or intraoperative open reduction internal fixation of fractures. In addition, oral hygiene can be maintained, and the glove perforation rate was very low using IMFS. The relatively small sample size and limited follow-up period were the study limitations.

Sistema miofuncional orofacial e trauma de face: revisão crítica da literatura / Changes in the orofacial myofunctional system after treatment for facial trauma: a critical review of the literature

Introdução: Esta revisão qualitativa da literatura levantou publicações científicas internacionais sobre a funcionalidade do sistema miofuncional orofacial nos traumas faciais, por meio da base de dados PubMed. Método: O levantamento realizado limitou-se a seres humanos, de qualquer faixa etária, no idioma inglês, entre os anos de 2005 e 2011. As publicações sem acesso completo, repetidas por sobreposição das palavras chave, estudos de caso, revisões de literatura, cartas ao editor e as não relacionadas diretamente ao tema foram excluídas. Resultados: Foram identificados 831 estudos, sendo 14 dentro dos critérios estabelecidos. Notou-se que a avaliação mais frequente foi a da função mandibular e depois análise de tratamentos; ocorreu mais fratura no côndilo que ângulo mandibular; utilizou-se mais tratamento cirúrgico juntamente com o conservador, seguido pelo somente cirúrgico e finalmente somente conservador; a maior incidência de traumas faciais foi em adultos do sexo masculino; poucas pesquisas foram realizadas com crianças e grupo-controle; utilizaram-se mais avaliações da função mandibular e clínicas, na maioria pré e pós-cirurgia; a força de mordida e a área oclusal apresentaram melhora póstratamento, no entanto a assimetria mandibular permaneceu; os valores de abertura máxima da boca atingiram a normalidade, porém inferiores ao grupo-controle; houve persistência de alterações na mobilidade mandibular e dor, mesmo após o tratamento; e a terapia miofuncional melhorou o quadro de alterações. Conclusão: É necessário mais publicações sobre o tratamento fonoaudiológico baseado na abordagem miofuncional orofacial nos traumas faciais.

Introduction: This qualitative literature review aims to highlight international scientific publications selected from the PubMed database that describe the changes in the function of the orofacial myofunctional system after facial trauma and the associated treatment outcomes. Methods: Studies published in English between 2005 and 2011 and including individuals of all age groups were included in this review. Publications that were not open access, studies appearing more than once because of overlapping keywords, case studies, literature reviews, letters to the editor, and studies that were not directly related to the subject were excluded. Results: A total of 831 studies were identified, 14 of which fulfilled the established criteria. Assessment of jaw function was the most frequent evaluation performed in the included studies, followed by the analysis of treatments. The incidence of condylar fractures was higher than that of mandibular angle fractures. The majority of cases were managed by surgery combined with conservative treatment, followed by surgery alone and conservative treatment alone. Adult men exhibited a higher incidence of facial trauma. Few studies included children or control groups. Further assessment of jaw and clinical functions before and after surgery revealed the following findings. The bite force and occlusal contact area improved after treatment, whereas mandibular asymmetry persisted even after surgery. The maximum mouth opening returned to normal after treatment, although the range of mouth opening was lower in patients with facial trauma than in controls. Persistent mobility in the mandibular teeth and pain were observed even after treatment. Myofunctional therapy resulted in an overall improvement in jaw function. Conclusions: Although the number of studies on facial trauma is increasing, few studies address the use and benefits of orofacial myofunctional therapy in this field. Further studies on orofacial myofunctional therapy combined with surgery and/ or conservative treatment for facial trauma are necessary.