Evaluation of Mandibular Fractures in a German Nationwide Trauma Center Between 2015 and 2017.

INTRODUCTION: This study analyses the treatment of isolated mandibular fractures between 1.1.2015 and 21.31.2017 at Dortmund General Hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patient documentation and radiological images have been assessed, and a descriptive statistical analysis has been performed.

RESULTS: Three hundred and twenty-eight patients were identified with isolated mandibular fractures (259 male, 69 female). The male-to-female ratio is 3.75: 1. A total of 541 fracture sites have been identified (1.65 fractures/patient). Forty of these were observed in the dentoalveolar region (fracture of the alveolar process, dental injuries), and the other 501 injuries were distributed in the remaining parts of the lower jaw.A detailed analysis of the osteosynthesis implants is provided. A total of 20 serious complications were observed (6% in all primary cases, 4.5% without osseointegrated implants).

DISCUSSION: The demographic data and the anatomical distribution of the fracture sites are comparable with international literature. Dentoalveolar injuries mostly occur in younger patients. The complication rate in this study (4.5%) is below the international data; however, we found a considerably higher rate than in the midfacial region (central midface: 0%, lateral midface: 1.43%). Despite this complication rate, the procedure can be considered safe.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version of this article (10.1007/s12663-021-01513-4).