Removing maxillomandibular fixation devices after ORIF of mandible fractures

Methods: A retrospective cohort study design was used. The sample was composed of subjects with mandibular fractures managed using ORIF. MMF devices included arch bars, MMF screws, and Ivy loops. The predictor variable was the status of MMF devices at the end of the operation (retained or removed). The outcome variable was PO complication (present or absent). Other variables were classified as demographic, anatomic, and management. Appropriate descriptive, bivariate, and multiple logistic regression statistics were computed.

Results: The study sample consisted of 27 and 59 subjects whose MMF devices were retained or removed, respectively. The frequencies of complications for the MMF retained and removed groups were 18.5% and 30.5%, respectively (Odds ratio (OR)= 1.9; p=0.2). After adjusting for differences between the two samples, subjects having MMF released continued to have a statistically insignificant increased risk for PO complications (OR = 1.3; p=0.73). One patient (1.7%) in the group having MMF devices removed at the end of the procedure had to have the MMF device reapplied to manage the PO complication.

Conclusion: In this sample, subjects having MMF devices removed immediately following fracture treatment had a statistically insignificant increased risk of PO complications compared with those having MMF devices retained.