Name of the Procedure:

Closed treatment of palatal or maxillary fracture (LeFort I type), with interdental wire fixation or fixation of denture or splint

Summary

This procedure involves repairing a fracture of the upper jaw (maxilla) using closed techniques. This means the surgeon will not make large incisions on the face. Instead, they will use interdental wiring or a custom-fitted dental splint to stabilize and align the broken bones.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to address fractures of the upper jaw (LeFort I fractures). It aims to realign the bones for proper healing, restore normal facial structure, and improve function in terms of chewing and speaking.

Indications

• Traumatic injury to the face resulting in a LeFort I fracture.
• Misalignment of the upper jaw following an injury.
• Difficulty in chewing or speaking due to jaw fracture.
• Visible deformity of the upper jaw.

Preparation

• The patient may be advised to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Routine blood tests and imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans are typically required.
• The patient should inform the surgeon about any medications they are taking and might need to adjust or stop certain medications like blood thinners.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.
2. Accessing the fracture: The surgeon uses the oral cavity to access and align the fractured bones, avoiding large external incisions.
3. Fixation: The bones are stabilized using interdental wire fixation or a custom-fitted dental splint. The wires or splints help hold the bones in place while they heal.
4. Closing: Any small incisions or punctures are closed, and the mouth is cleaned.

Tools/Equipment: Interdental wires, dental splints, surgical instruments, and radiographic imaging for alignment confirmation.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the fracture.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Oral and maxillofacial surgeons
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologists

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the site of wire or splint placement
• Bleeding or swelling
• Nerve damage leading to numbness
• Misalignment of the bones requiring further intervention
• Difficulty in daily functions such as eating and speaking during the healing period

Benefits

• Realignment and stabilization of the fractured jaw
• Restoration of normal appearance and function
• Improved ability to eat and speak
• Reduced pain and discomfort in the long term

Recovery

• The patient may need to follow a soft or liquid diet initially.
• Oral hygiene instructions should be followed to prevent infection.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing.
• Full recovery may take several weeks to a few months, depending on the individual’s healing process.

Alternatives

• Open reduction and internal fixation (direct surgery to place plates and screws).
• Conservative management with observation and limited mobility (for very minor fractures).
• Pros and Cons: Closed treatment is less invasive with quicker recovery but might not be suitable for severe fractures needing open surgery.

Patient Experience

• Patients may experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
• There may be some discomfort due to the wires or splint in the mouth.
• Detailed instructions for oral care and activity levels will be provided to facilitate smooth recovery.