Compound splint for comminuted mandibular fracture

Maintenance of an adequate airway, control of bleeding, and neurologic evaluation should take precedence over treatment of facial injuries. Comminuted mandibular fractures are rare and require the use of complex splints. Severe lacerations and bone displacement accompany comminuted mandibular fractures. Extraoral facial splints constructed from donor facial moulages can be used along with intraoral splints for these patients. Preaccident photographs and radiographs are excellent aids to help realign the fractured segments. The use of an extraoral "donor" splint in conjunction with an intraoral splint to stabilize comminuted mandibular fracture helps to eliminate unnecessary gross removal of mandibular bone.