IADR Abstract Archives
Analysis of demographics and post operative complications relating to mandibular angle fractures in a National Maxillofacial Unit
Objectives: Objectives: Mandibular angle fractures (MAF) have an increased risk of incurring
complications compared to other mandibular fractures. These fractures are associated with
assaults and a younger, predominantly male age group. There are a recognised variety of
options for treatment of MAF, none of which have not demonstrated a convincing
superiority. This study aims to establish the incidence of post-operative complications and
reoperation of isolated MAF in the National Maxillofacial Unit, St James Hospital.
Methods: Methods: A single centre, retrospective cohort study was conducted for a single calendar
year. Patients undergoing open reduction with internal fixation with an isolated MAF and no
other facial fractures were identified from a retrospectively obtained database of
mandibular fractures. Complications were scored as minor (treated as outpatients) and
major (involving a return to theatre).
Results: Results: This cohort study included 45 patients. The average age was 27.3 (SD=7.7) and 84%
(38/45) were male. All patients were treated in a similar fashion, with standardised pre-
surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis. Intermaxillary fixation was employed according to
surgeon preference. A comparatively low rate of complications (11.1%) and a low rate of
reoperation (1.8%) is reported, along with a significant role of smoking in complications
(p=0.022). A non-significant association was noted between complications and male gender
(p=0.28) as an aetiological factor. No association was noted between surgical approach and
complication rates (p=0.44).
Conclusions: Conclusions: Review of the data from this study confirms that complication rates for
patients attending the National Maxillofacial Unit are similar to or better than that of
international studies.
complications compared to other mandibular fractures. These fractures are associated with
assaults and a younger, predominantly male age group. There are a recognised variety of
options for treatment of MAF, none of which have not demonstrated a convincing
superiority. This study aims to establish the incidence of post-operative complications and
reoperation of isolated MAF in the National Maxillofacial Unit, St James Hospital.
Methods: Methods: A single centre, retrospective cohort study was conducted for a single calendar
year. Patients undergoing open reduction with internal fixation with an isolated MAF and no
other facial fractures were identified from a retrospectively obtained database of
mandibular fractures. Complications were scored as minor (treated as outpatients) and
major (involving a return to theatre).
Results: Results: This cohort study included 45 patients. The average age was 27.3 (SD=7.7) and 84%
(38/45) were male. All patients were treated in a similar fashion, with standardised pre-
surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis. Intermaxillary fixation was employed according to
surgeon preference. A comparatively low rate of complications (11.1%) and a low rate of
reoperation (1.8%) is reported, along with a significant role of smoking in complications
(p=0.022). A non-significant association was noted between complications and male gender
(p=0.28) as an aetiological factor. No association was noted between surgical approach and
complication rates (p=0.44).
Conclusions: Conclusions: Review of the data from this study confirms that complication rates for
patients attending the National Maxillofacial Unit are similar to or better than that of
international studies.