Mandibular ramus fractures: a rarity.

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Orthognathic Surgery

Background:

• Mandibular fractures are common in trauma patients.
• Ramus fractures represent a specific subset with unique management considerations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of mandibular ramus fractures at KLE's PK Hospital.
• To analyze the outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for these fractures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study design analyzing trauma patient records from January 2006 to October 2011.
• Data included patient demographics, injury cause, occlusion, treatment, and outcomes.
• Focus on patients with mandibular ramus fractures.

Main Results:

• 10 ramus fractures identified (3.3% of 298 mandibular fractures).
• Average patient age was 35.6 years (range 20-80); 90% were male.
• ORIF was performed on 7 patients, with an average maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) period of 3 days; all cases showed improved occlusion without complications.

Conclusions:

• Mandibular ramus fractures are infrequent but significant injuries.
• Open reduction and internal fixation provide effective functional and anatomical restoration for ramus fractures.