The use of silk for maxillomandibular fixation

A method of maxillomandibular fixation for jaw fractures that uses silk ligatures has been described. After the period of muscle spasm has been overcome by maxillomandibular elastics, these are replaced with the silk suture material. Silk prevents the occurrence of hypertrophy of the buccal mucosa that is occasionally seen with the use of elastics. Also, patient comfort is improved by minimizing the pull on the teeth and facilitating better oral hygiene in the postoperative period.