[Infections along trans-mucosal fixation wires]

In a retrospective investigation the frequency and reasons for infections along internal fixation wires used in trauma patients was studied. A group of 628 trauma patients of the period 1985-1990 was reviewed. In 50 patients out of this group internal wires were used that perforate the oral mucosa. In 11 cases an infection was noted. The trauma group was than compared with 634 patients who underwent orthognathic surgery in the same period. In this group only 3 patients developed an infection along an internal fixation wire. After analysis of the date it seemed that the use of preventive antibiotics and a good oral hygiene prevents infections along intern wires.