What's the Diagnosis? Case by Dr. Erica Schramm

Answer: Mandibular fracture.....but did you see both? (see image below)  

Mandibular Fractures:

  • The second most common facial fracture (nasal bone fractures are the most common)
  • 50% of patients have multiple mandibular fractures (often at the site of impact as well as the opposite side)
  • The most common anatomic locations are the angle > the body > the parasymphysis 
  • Signs of mandibular fracture on exam: bony deformity or tenderness to palpation, malocclusion, dental line irregularities, dental trauma, sublingual ecchymosis or hematoma 
  • A thorough intra-oral exam is necessary to identify if the fracture is open or closed
  • Displaced fractures, open fractures, or fractures associated with dental trauma require urgent OMFS consult

 

References:

1)Bailitz, John and Tarlan Hedayati.  “Trauma to the Face.” Tintinalli’s Emergency Medicine a Comprehensive Study Guide, 8e.  Eds, Judith E. Tintinalli, et al.  New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2016.

2)Munter, David W.  “Head and Facial Trauma.”  The Atlas of Emergency Medicine, 4e.  Eds. Kevin J. Knoop et al.  New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2016.