RESUMEN
48 patients with fractures of the jaw bones were included in this study. Intermaxillary fixation screws were used for tractions between the upper and lower jaw and to regain occlusion relationship, followed by internal rigid fixation. Two days after reduction of the fractures, intermaxillary tractions were carried out and the fixation screws remained for 2 weeks. All the wounds healed primarily with good occlusion. The wounds for screw placement healed well 3 to 5 days after removal of the screws. Excellent occlusion recovered in 45 patients, while in 3 patients, mild open bite developed which returned to normal after 2 weeks of intermaxillary tractions. It is concluded that intermaxillary fixation screws are time saving and efficient in the management of jaw fractures.