The surgical management of post-traumatic malocclusion

Abstract

Facial skeleton fractures should be reduced as early as possible to restore optimal function and minimize skeletal and soft-tissue deformity. With unsatisfactory outcome from delayed treatment because of comorbidity, or despite optimal management, late reconstruction can succeed with conventional orthognathic surgical procedures. Management follows well-established principles of correcting dentofacial deformities, coordinated with orthodontic and prosthodontic support. Planning should include dental records when available, and clinical photographs. The late deformity of midfacial fractures can be corrected by following initial fracture lines; condylar fracture patients can be treated by remote osteotomies. Before surgical intervention, diminished temporomandibular joint (TMJ) mobility should be managed with aggressive physiotherapy to maximize stomal opening. Additionally, successful outcome will depend on a stable TMJ relation without ongoing remodeling.