EFFICACY OF IMF SCREWS IN MANAGEMENT OF DISPLACED AND UNDISPLACED FRACTURE OF MANDIBLE

Abstract

Background- Successful treatment of mandibular fractures depends on reduction, restoration of normal occlusion and fixation. Before fracture reduction, temporary intermaxillary fixation (IMF) with correct registration of occlusion is required. IMF screws were initiated as a means of achieving temporary jaw fixation. Previous Studies have concentrated on efficacy of IMF screws in undisplaced fracture and there is no authentic study about its efficacy in displaced fracture since traction forces are difficult. So as to know its utility in displaced fracture we design this study. Methods: twenty patients with mandibular fractures treated by IMF using these screws and were evaluated by pre and postoperative panoramic radiographs. Clinical testing was carried out for vitality and abnormal mobility of teeth adjacent to the site of screw insertions. Its efficacy in displaced and undisplaced fracture is evaluated. Other factors such as possible iatrogenic dental injuries, loss, breakage or screw cover by oral mucosa and postoperative occlusion were also studied. Results: IMF screws are beneficial in displaced fracture too. The most important complication noticed was loosening of screws and covering of screws with mucosa. Conclusion: Use of IMF screws is a valid alternative to arch bars in also the treatment of displaced mandibular fracture. Its Loosening of screws are minimized by using longer diameter of screw.