Diagnosis and management of common maxillofacial injuries in the emergency department. Part 2: mandibular fractures.

The majority of mandibular fractures occur in young males aged 16-30 years. As with all traumas, the history and examination cannot be over emphasised as diagnoses can be made with these tools. It is important when taking an accurate history to ascertain the mode and mechanism of injury (fall, punch, road traffic accident), and the magnitude and direction of the force involved (high or low velocity impact).