Objective:

Mandibular fractures which are the second most common facial injuries after nasal fractures among maxillofacial traumas, do not only effect mastication and speech functions but also important for the aesthetic appearance of the lower 1/3 part of the face. There are many types of classification for mandibular fractures, and these classifications are very important for the selection of the best treatment method. In this study, we examined the patients who developed fractures of the mandible in Okmeydani district, and studied etiological and epidemiological characteristics of these patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate our clinic results, them with literature findings, and review the approach to, and the treatment of mandible fractures.

Methods:

A retrospective investigation on 57 inpatients with mandibular fractures was carried out in our clinics (Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital, Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery) between January 2008 and February 2011 regarding their etiology, epidemiology, exceptional conditions, treatment modalities, outcomes and complications.

Results:

Most common etiologic factor was falling from height (39 %) and followed by traffic accidents in 32 % of the patients. There were 95 fractures in 57 patients and 48 % of the patients had more than one fracture involving different bodily parts. Six-teen patients were treated with open reduction and miniplate fixation without intermaxillary, and 15 patients with open reduction and miniplate fixation with intermaxillary fixation procedure. Total postoperative complication rate was 8,7 %.

Conclusion:

The success of treatment in mandible fractures depends on the detailed evaluation of the patients and rapid and proper therapy. Experience of the surgeon is also important for the selection of appropriate treatment. Complication rates can be reduced when the patients are treated correctly by an experienced team.

Keywords: mandibula fratures, facial fractures, trauma, fixation