Jaw fracture: analysis of 50 surgical cases in a teaching hospital

■ ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The mandible is the largest and strongest of the bones in the face. Due to its topography, it is vulnerable to trauma. Data analysis on mandible fractures is fundamental for treatment and public health policies. This study aims to conduct an epidemiological survey of surgically treated mandibular fractures.

Method:

Screening through the hospital information system, seeking patients undergoing surgery for jaw fracture performed at a teaching hospital by the plastic surgery team in Campinas-SP from April 2015 to April 2020. Data were then collected through analysis of medical records.

Results:

50 patients were included, 90% male. The average age was 30.7 years. The predominant etiology was an automobile accident, and the most fractured region in the mandible was the parasymphysis. The median time between trauma and surgery was 19 days. Eleven (22%) patients had some comorbidity. Fourteen patients (28%) were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and 42% underwent surgery with another specialty besides Plastic Surgery. Ten (20%) patients had some complication of the surgery, the most common being surgical wound dehiscence.

Conclusion:

There was a predominance among young men and traffic accidents as etiology. Fractures were preferably located in the parasymphysis region and were treated using rigid internal fixation. The high rates of ICU admission, associated injuries, and surgical procedures carried out by other specialties demonstrate the severity of the patients assisted in the service.

Keywords:
Facial injuries; Facial bones; Mandible; Face; Mandibular fractures