[Management of mid-facial fractures]

In the past, treatment of maxillofacial fractures was characterized by low incidences of midface fractures, while severe cases were associated with a high death rate. Over the last decades the application of new techniques has provided a successful outcome in the management of these more frequently observed injuries. With the introduction of antibiotics and the principles of modern anesthesiology, conservative methods of fracture treatment such as intermaxillary fixation and the application of extension devices were increasingly replaced by surgical techniques. The development of different osteosynthesis plate and screw systems in the early 1970s has made three-dimensional reconstruction a standard of care in the surgical treatment of midface fractures. With the recent introduction of commercially available bioresorbable systems, removal of osteosynthesis material has become an unnecessary procedure. Further research in innovative techniques of maxillofacial surgery and imaging, such as image-guided surgery by computer navigation, may be warranted to minimize surgical approaches and decrease incidences of perioperative morbidity.