A 20 year old male came into the Emergency Room with jaw swelling and pain on chewing. A few hours before the consult, he went clubbing, got into a fight, and was punched in the jaw by another drunk person, resulting in a broken jaw.
He was then brought to the emergency room where he was stabilized, the mouth bleeding was controlled, and diagnostic tests were done. A 3D facial CT scan revealed jaw fracture in the symphysis (between the 2 central incisors) and the angle (behind the 3rd molar).He was eventually referred to the ENT department for further management.
A mandible fracture is a break or fracture in the mandible, or lower jawbone. Mandibular fractures can occur as a result of trauma, such as a fall, a car accident, or a blow to the face, such as in this patient.
SYMPTOMS OF A JAW FRACTURE
Symptoms of a mandibular fracture include pain and swelling in the jaw or numbness of part of the jaw. Problems aligning teeth, difficulty speaking or chewing, and swallowing may be present. The jaw could also appear crooked, with bruising or swelling around gums, face and neck.
HOW IS A JAW FRACTURE DIAGNOSED?
Diagnosis usually starts with your ENT doctor asking the history of the trauma and doing a physical examination. Skull or jaw x-rays may be done, or a facial 3D CT scan may be requested to visualize for any jaw fracture or any other fractures of the face.
TREATMENT OF JAW FRACTURE
Treatment for a mandible fracture typically involves surgery which realigns the jaw and stabilizes it. This procedure is called Open Reduction and Internal Fixation, which is usually done by and ENT doctor under general anesthesia. The jaw fracture may be stabilized using interdental wires and/or titanium plates, and screws. To see an example of a jaw fracture surgery, please refer to this blog.
PREVENTION OF MANDIBLE FRACTURE
To prevent mandible fractures, it is important to wear protective gear during activities that may put you at risk of facial trauma, such as sports or activities that involve machinery. It is also important to avoid behaviors that may increase the risk of falling, such as driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is best to consult with an ENT surgeon if you suspect a jaw fracture
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