Journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery : official journal of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
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J. Oral Maxillofac. Surg. · Jan 2006
The use of immediate bone grafting in reconstruction of clinically infected mandibular fractures: bone grafts in the presence of pus.
Current approaches to the treatment of infected mandibular fractures include antibiotics, drainage, immobilization of the segments, and debridement followed by secondary bone grafting of residual defects once the infection is resolved and the wound healed. Over the past 30 years, the time from debridement to grafting has diminished from several months to a few weeks. We present our experience with a treatment model managing clinically infected fractures of the mandible with antibiotics, debridement, rigid internal fixation, and immediate autogenous bone grafting. ⋯ Although careful patient selection is a must, immediate bone grafting of infected mandibular fractures, when used in conjunction with rigid internal fixation and appropriate intraoperative debridement, is an effective treatment modality which allows a single surgical procedure and dramatically shortens the course of treatment.
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Extension of dental abscesses to distant areas of the head and neck has been repeatedly reported in the medical literature. Subsequent involvement of the orbit still remains a rarity, resulting in protracted onset of therapy because of inaccurate diagnosis. Considering the possible lasting damage that can result from insufficient therapy, like blindness or even death, the need to extensively educate practicing physicians becomes evident. ⋯ The acute orbit continues to be a medical challenge. With the proposed diagnostic and therapy guidelines, this affliction can be identified and contained with a high degree of certainty.
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J. Oral Maxillofac. Surg. · Jan 2006
Motorcycle-related maxillofacial injuries among Nigerian intracity road users.
We sought to determine the etiology and pattern of motorcycle-related maxillofacial injuries among intracity road users in Nigeria. ⋯ Motorcycle-related maxillofacial injuries among Nigerians affect males predominantly. The injuries sustained have a symmetric distribution and were mostly soft tissue injuries in isolation or in combination with bony injuries. The middle third of the face is most vulnerable. Mandatory use of safety helmets and education of cyclists on the appropriate number of pillion passengers are imperative to minimize the morbidity and mortality associated with motorcycle accidents.