Bifocal mandibular fractures: which should be treated first?

Fractures of the mandible have been reported to account between 40% and 62% of all facial fractures. Most surveys show that just under 50% are isolated, the same amount are doubly fractured. This study aims to clarify, according to our experience, the correct surgical sequence which should be followed in order to treat bifocal mandibular fractures. From January 2004 to January 2009, we have conducted a retrospective study on a sample of patients operated on in our department because of bifocal mandibular fractures. We include only those cases in which the jaw was fractured in 2 places, in particular patients who suffer a fracture in tooth-bearing areas (symphysis, parasymphysis, and anterior body) and also contralaterally in non-tooth-bearing areas (posterior body, angle, ramus, and condyle). The sample was divided into 2 groups based on the fracture sequence of reduction. At 1-year follow-up, the group of patients who received first the tooth-bearing fractured areas treatment, followed by treatment of non-tooth-bearing fractured area on bifocal mandibular fracture, showed less postoperative complications and reduced surgical time and costs. It is recommended from this study that reduction of the tooth-bearing fragment be prior to that of the tooth-free fragment for the bifocal mandible.