Trends in Maxillomandibular Fixation Technique at a Single Academic Institution

Abstract

Study Design Retrospective chart review. Objective Restoration of premorbid occlusion is a key goal in the treatment of mandibular fractures. Placement of the patient in maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) is performed during mandibular fracture repair to help establish occlusion. A number of techniques are available to achieve MMF. We sought to examine trends in MMF technique at our institution. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted to evaluate patients who underwent surgical treatment of mandibular fractures between January 1, 2011 and March 31, 2021. Data including fracture characteristics, mechanism of injury, patient demographics, complication rates, and MMF technique utilized were collected. Results One hundred sixty-three patients underwent MMF (132 males). The most common etiology of fracture was assault (34%). There was an increasing preference for rapid MMF techniques over time, as opposed to standard Erich arch bars. No significant difference in obtaining adequate fracture reduction as determined by postoperative imaging or complications were noted between those who underwent MMF with newer rapid techniques vs traditional MMF techniques. Conclusions Our institution has demonstrated changing trends in the technique utilized for establishing occlusion intraoperatively, more recently favoring rapid MMF techniques, with similar rates of complications and ability to adequately reduce fractures.