Evaluation of anthropometric indices in patients with maxillomandibular fractures undergoing intermaxillary fixation

Abstract

Intermaxillary fixation affects the anthropometric measurements like body mass index (BMI) and skin fold thickness with possible changes in lipid and total protein profile while promoting loss of water, protein and fat. This study aims to determine the effect of IMF on BMI and skinfold thickness. Changes in the physiological levels of total protein, albumin, lipid profile factors and calcium were also assessed. It was a cross sectional study in patients with maxillomandibular fractures conducted at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Government Dental College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. BMI and skinfold thickness was recorded before and after the 4-week IMF period in 45 patients. SPSS software version 20.0 was used. Categorical and quantitative variables were expressed as frequency and mean +/- SD respectively. Paired t test was used on certain quantitative parameters. p < 0.05 was considered significant. This study showed that treatment with IMF can lead to changes in anthropometric indices namely BMI and skin fold thickness and possible change in total protein and albumin.