Mandibular Fractures

Definition: Breaks in the continuity of the mandibular bone, which can occur as single or multiple fractures.

Radiographic Features:

• Location:
  • Most common sites:
    1. Angle of the mandible
    2. Neck of the ramus
    3. Anterior mandible
  • Often continuous with a tooth’s periodontal ligament space
• Edge: Well-defined
• Shape:
  • Can be linear or jagged
  • May lack a definitive shape
• Internal structure:
  • Radiolucent when seen as a line
  • Radiopaque when two segments overlap
• Number: May be single or multiple (segmental fracture if two fractures create three segments)

Key points:

• Four radiographic features of fractures (reminder):
  1. Radiolucent line
  2. Discontinuity of cortical outline
  3. Change in trabecular pattern
  4. Deviation of bony fragments

Clinical significance:

• Can cause pain, swelling, malocclusion, and difficulty in jaw movement
• Risk of infection and non-union if not properly treated
• May require surgical intervention and/or intermaxillary fixation
• Potential for damage to adjacent structures (e.g., nerves, teeth)

Note: Multiple imaging modalities (panoramic, CBCT, CT) may be necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Clinical examination and patient history are crucial to correlate with radiographic findings.