An Objective Tool for the Assessment of Masticatory Forces Following the Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Posterior Mandibular Fracture

Abstract

Objective:The purpose of this study was to to present maximum voluntary bite force as a reliable objective assessment tool for the analysis of the management of mandibular fracture. Materials and methods:The study is a prospective case series for evaluation of the postoperative bite force in patients suffering from mandibular fracture posterior to the mental foramen and managed with open reduction and internal fixation. Statistical significance was set at the 5% level. Results: Twelve patients were enrolled in this study. Nine of the involved patients suffered from a mandibular angle fracture, while three patients complained from mandibular body fracture. All patients across the follow-up sessions reported a statistically significant decrease in the level of the experienced pain intensity. All of the operated patients reported a statistically significant increase in the level of the measured inter-incisal mouth opening. Across the examination period, the mean reported maximum voluntary bite force showed a statistically significant increase. Conclusion:Postoperative maximum voluntary bite force analysis is a a reliable objective tool for the assessment of the quality of posterior mandibular fracture management, outlining the favourable outcome of open reduction and internal fixation.