Idea Exchange: Repairing mandibular symphyseal fractures with no slipping

Mandibular symphyseal fractures are usually repaired by placing cerclage wire around the mandible or figure-eight cerclage wire around the lower canine teeth. But often the jaw heals with the mandible displaced laterally. Placing a pin across the fracture site and cerclage wire around the canines, if they are still sound, or around the mandible, if the canines are missing, produces excellent stabilization and repair. Most jaws heal within 10 days after the procedure; however, healing rates vary by patient.

Dr. Robert H. Faulk

Lubbock, Texas