Alternative Intermaxillary Fixation Method Using Drill-Free Screws

ABSTRACT

In the treatment of maxillofacial surgery, proper intermaxillary fixation is very important in improving bone union and restoration of normal occlusion. Bone screws are placed bicortically in predrilled holes in the maxilla and mandible are commonly used for temporary intermaxillary fixation in the treatment of maxillofacial surgery. Their main advantages are that they are quick and easy to place and remove, save operating time; they reduce the risk of needle-stick injury; they can be used with heavily restored teeth. However, several authors report damage to the roots of teeth in placing these screws with drills and shearing of the screw head. To overcome these disadvantages, a drill-free screw that is self-drilling and self-tapping has been applied. From August, 2003 to May, 2004 drill free scerws have been used in total 11 patients with variable maxillofacial surgery. No complications from the use of these screws were encounterd. Compared with intermaxillary fixation method using predrilled intermaxillary screws, this method is useful, because this method do not cause damage to the roots of teeth and shearing off the screw head.