Retreatment of Mandibular Fractures: A 7-year Retrospective Study of 34 Cases

Mandibular fractures are common facial injuries [1-3]. The prognosis of these fractures is influenced by many confounding variables which directly or indirectly determine their treatment outcomes [4-7]. There is no consensus in the literature on the most prevalent factors associated with post-operative complications due to the treatments of mandibular fractures. The treatment of these fractures have evolved over the decades from non-rigid fixation to rigid internal fixation (RIF) in an effort to enhance patients’ wellbeing in the post-operative period, improve treatment outcome and minimize complications that would lead to the retreatment of the fracture. However, complications can occur after treatment which may sometimes require retreatment of the fracture [8,9]. The consequences of retreatment on the patient include greater morbidity, longer period of hospitalization and absenteeism from work, increased economic and social costs among others [10,11]. From the available literature, only very few studies have been reported evaluating mandibular fractures’ retreatment. Therefore, the purpose of this seven year retrospective study was to evaluate the characteristics and the types of treatment carried out in patients requiring retreatment of mandibular fractures. ABSTRACT Background: Complications can occur after treatment of mandibular fracture that may require a new surgical treatment; only few studies have evaluated retreatment.