Mandibular fractures in Bahrain A 10 year study

ABSTRACT

Determine the aetiology and pattern of mandibular fractures in Bahrain over a period of 10 years. Design: Retrospective analysis of medical records of all of 325 patients who sustained mandibular fractures between 1984-1995. The total number of cases of mandibular fracture was 325 with male female ratio of 61. The peak age of fracture incidence is in the 20-30 years age group. Road traffic accidents [RTA] is the most common aetiology of mandibular fractures in Bahrain accounting for 44.6%. Falls is the second common cause accounting for 40%. The treatment method employed remained static for the provision of intermaxillary fixation [IMF]. Road traffic accidents constituted the main cause of mandibular fractures in Bahrain from 1984 - 1995 and intermaxillary fixation was the standard treatment method employed. There is a great need for more open reduction and rigid internal fixation [ORIF] which would decrease the length of patient hospitalisation, increased patient safety, improved communication and easier nutrition