Analysis of 103 mandibular angle fractures

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: The mandible is fractured more commonly than other bones of the facial skeleton and several studies
have shown the increased risk of mandibular angle fractures associated with the presence of mandibular third
molars. This retrospective study reviewed cases of mandibular angle fractures to identify personal data, etiology,
fracture characteristics, mandibular third molar status and treatment modality.
Materials and methods: From January 1970 until December 1989, 100 patients with 103 mandibular angle fractures
were treated by the department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at Baghdad College of Dentistry, in Iraq. Information
was obtained from patient's case records and radiographs.
Results: The patient ages ranged from 5-65 years with a mean of 27.2 years, 79 of them were males and 21 females.
The mandibular third molar was present in 83 fractures (83%). The majority of case was treated by closed reduction
and indirect skeletal fixation 87%.
Conclusion: This study confirmed an increased risk of mandibular angle fractures in the presence of a lower third
molar, as well as motor vehicle accident was the main etiological factor in developing countries.
Keywords: angle fracture, lower third molar, closed reduction. (J Bagh Coll Dentistry 2011;23(1):73-76).