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Acrylic splints for dental alignment in complex facial injuries
S R Cohen1, D K Leonard, B L Markowitz
1Center for Craniofacial Disorders, Scottish Rite Children's Medical Center, Atlanta, GA 30342.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|November 1, 1993
Summary
This study highlights the effectiveness of using dental splints and model surgery in managing complex facial fractures. Precise pre-operative planning and fixation ensure optimal occlusion restoration in trauma patients.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Orthognathic Surgery
Background:
- Complex facial fractures often involve occlusal disruption, necessitating specialized management.
- Restoring pre-injury occlusion is critical for functional recovery after severe facial trauma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of dental splints and model surgery in managing complex facial fractures.
- To assess the role of pre-injury occlusion restoration in surgical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized wide subperiosteal exposure, anatomical reduction, and rigid internal fixation for fracture management.
- Incorporated dental impressions, model surgery, and custom acrylic splint fabrication to achieve pre-injury occlusion.
- Performed model surgery on segmented fracture lines, repositioning fragments based on dental wear facets and pre-injury occlusion records.
Main Results:
- Twenty-four patients with complex facial injuries underwent surgical management.
- Twenty-six dental splints (palatal, lingual, occlusal) were fabricated and used to establish proper occlusal relationships prior to internal fixation.
- High-velocity motor vehicle accidents were the most common cause of injury.
Conclusions:
- Dental splint fabrication and model surgery are valuable adjuncts for managing complex facial fractures with occlusal involvement.
- This technique facilitates precise anatomical reduction and restoration of pre-injury occlusion, crucial for successful surgical outcomes.