Intermaxillary Fixation (IMF) and Minisplintsin the Maxillofacial Region

Overview

Summary:
In the submitted paper the authors discuss their views and experience with theapplication of minisplints. Principles were elaborated according to which the minisplint fixationsystem can be universally used in traumatology of the maxillofacial region and in orthognaticsurgery. By fixation by means of a minisplint adequate stability of fragments is ensured evenin the most exposed area of the mandibular angle. It makes mandibular movement possible,as well as intake of liquid food, oral hygiene shortly after surgery. As to subjective aspects thepatient perceives treatment by minisplints without IMF, as compared with treatment whereIMF is necessary, as much more pleasant. The intraoral approach is simpler from the surgicalaspect: we penetrate only across one anatomical layer, there is no scar in the face, rehabilitationis quicker, hospitalization is shorter and the patient returns sooner to normal life.

Key words:
intermaxillary fixation (IMF) – osteosynthesis – minisplints – intraoral approach