Complications Associated With Open Reduction Of Mandibular Fractures

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the complications of open reduction and internal fixation of mandibular fracture with miniplates. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 134 patients who presented with 196 fractures were analyzed retrospectively. Complications were evaluated for factors such as age, the site of fracture, the severity of fracture, delayed operation, preoperative wound contamination, the site and disposition of teeth in the fracture line and midfacial fractures. Statistical analysis was used to compare complications to risk factors. RESULTS: Of the 134 patients, 20 patients had some form of postoperative complications and complication rate was 14.9%. These complications included infection, plate fracture, malocclusion, wound dehiscence, nerve injury and nonunion. There was a significant correlation between complication rate and the severity of fracture, preoperative wound contamination and the site of the fracture and disposition of teeth(p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The occurrence of postoperative complications in the treatment of mandibular fractures was related to the severity of fracture, preoperative wound contamination and the site of the fracture and disposition of teeth.