Arch Craniofac Surg.  2015 Aug;16(2):96-98. 10.7181/acfs.2015.16.2.96.

Use of a Y-Shaped Plate for Intermaxillary Fixation

• Kim TH
• Yang IH
• Minn KW
• Jin US

• KMID: 2167737
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7181/acfs.2015.16.2.96

Abstract

Maxillomandibular fractures usually require intermaxillary fixation as a means to immobilize and stabilize the fracture and to re-establish proper occlusion. Arch bars or intermaxillary fixation screws cannot be used for edentulous patients or for patients who have poor dental health. Here, we present a case of repeated intermaxillary fixation failure in a patient weak alveolar rigidity secondary to multiple dental implants. Because single-point fixation screws were not strong enough to maintain proper occlusion, we have used Y-shaped plates to provide more rigid anchoring points for the intermaxillary wires. We suggest that this method should be considered for patients in whom conventional fixation methods are inappropriate or have failed.

Keyword

Mandible; Jaw fixation techniques; Titanium plate; Mandibular reconstruction

MeSH Terms

Dental Implants
Humans
Jaw Fixation Techniques
Mandible
Mandibular Reconstruction
Dental Implants