Mandibular Fractures

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clinical Features

1. Lacerations, bleeding

2. Swelling

3. Ecchymosis, sublingual haematoma indicated fracture of the lingual plate

4. Visible and palpable deformity of bone with tenderness

5. Abnormal mobility and crepitus of mandible

6. Malocclusion and step deformity of teeth

7. Para/anaesthesia of lower lip

8. Damaged teeth

9. Bleeding from the ear

 

Treatment Principles

1. Debridement

2. Reduction—open/closed

3. Fixation— internal/external

4. Immobilisation

5. Functional rehabilitation

 

 

Unilateral condyle

¨ Affected side:                   Pain in joint, worse on moving

                                                    Tenderness and swelling    

                                                    Absent/ abnormal movement of head

                                                    Deviation of mandible to affected side

                                                    Gagging on molar teeth

¨ Opposite side:                   Open bite

                                                    Limitation of lateral excursion

 

Bilateral condyle                            Pain

                                                    Tenderness and swelling over both joints

                                                    Gagging on posterior teeth—anterior open bite                                                               Restricted lateral movement

                                                    Absence of condylar head movement

 

Anatomical Classification

Condylar injuries