Use of Elastomeric Separators in Maxillofacial Fracture Reduction

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Maxilla and mandibular fractures require reduction, fixation, and immobilization.
• Conventional methods for fracture management are well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of orthodontic elastic separators as an alternative to conventional elastics for fracture reduction.
• To highlight the advantages of orthodontic elastic separators, including higher traction forces.

Main Methods:

• Prestretched orthodontic elastic separators were utilized.
• Elastics were guided over arch bars or fixed orthodontic appliances to achieve desired traction.

Main Results:

• Orthodontic elastic separators provide significantly higher traction forces compared to conventional elastics.
• These separators offer an advantage over wires due to their resistance to work hardening and breakage.

Conclusions:

• Orthodontic elastic separators are a versatile and effective tool for managing maxilla and mandibular fractures.
• Their use in place of conventional elastics has yielded appreciable results over a 10-year period.