MANDIBULAR  FX

S & S:

1. Deformity. Palpation may reveal step-off.

2. Inability to open/close mouth due to malocclusion

3. Assess for facial nerve injury (numbness, nasal fold), parotid duct injury, mental nerve
    injury (lower lip numbness), dental fx, sublingual hematoma.

4. Assess for associated injuries such as hemotimpanum, Battle sign, etc.

5. Most frequent fx in descending order are:

Ø Angle (30%) – this can cause loss of toungue support and airway obstruction

Ø Condyle (30%) – causes anterior bite

Ø Body (30%) – may injure mental nerve and consequent  anesthesia to the area

Ø Ramus and Symphysis (10%)

 

DX:

1)     See above in "overview"

Treatment:

1)    OMF surgery consult.

2)    Start antbx if open fx (PCN or Clinda)

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