A retrospective study of 3326 mandibular fractures in 2252 patients

Fractures of the lower jaw are the most common facial traumatic injuries and their therapy dominates the treatment activities of oral and maxillofacial surgeons. The present study aimed at determining the types of mandibular fractures and the common trends in their treatment in patients who have sustained facial trauma. The patients have been treated for the last 15 years. MATERIAL AND METHODS. A retrospective study was conducted, which included a series of 3326 mandibular fractures in 2252 patients (1876 male and 376 female, aged 26 months to 85 years) treated in the Clinic of Dentistry between 1986 and 2000. The fracture distribution according to sex and age, anatomic localization, cause, time from trauma to treatment, methods of treatment and complications was investigated. The data were analysed statistically with descriptive statistics, non-parametric (Pearson's chi-square test) and graphic analysis. RESULTS. Mandibular fractures affect all ages; they occur five times as often in males as in females and predominate in young patients (20-29 years of age). The causes for fractures of the lower jaw are varied, the leading factor being assault and alcohol abuse (68.07 +/- 1.19%). According to anatomic localization, the fractures of the angle of the mandible prevail (34.15%), followed by fractures of the body (25.77%) and symphysis (19.57%). Mandibular fractures are treated using different methods, mainly closed reduction and fixation (78.16%) and less frequently open reduction and fixation (20.29%). Complications following treatment of mandibular fractures are encountered in 25.22% of the cases in the form of suppuration of facial wounds, post-traumatic haematomas, development of traumatic osteomyelitis or post-fixation contractures. CONCLUSION. The present study shows that mandibular fractures are not characteristic of certain sex or age, occur in all parts of the jaw and are treated by the methods of both closed and open reduction and fixation. Assault is the major cause of fractures of the mandible.