Mandibular Fractures

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This is the fracture of the lower jaw . This can either be opened or close fractures.

Causes

  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Assaults
  • Sports-related injuries
  • Falls

Signs and symptoms

  • Bleeding from the mouth
  • Ecchymosis
  • Bone discontinuity
  • Step deformity
  • Swelling
  • Improperly aligned teeth
  • Decreased ability to open the mouth
  • Pain
  • Speech difficulty

Investigations    

  • Physical examination
  • X-ray
  • CT scan

Treatment objectives

  • Reduce and fix fractured bone
  • Relieve pain
  • Prevent infection

Non-pharmacological treatment

  • Reduction and fixation of fracture

Pharmacological treatment

  • Pain medications reference (WHO pain ladder for further treatment)
  • Anti-tetanus.
  • Antibiotics if suspected bacterial infection. (Ampicillins, Amoxicillins plus Metronidazole)

Referral

  • Oral and maxillofacial surgeon for unstable fractures.