[A new "light" maxillomandibular fixation system].
BACKGROUND: A new "light" maxillo-mandibular fixation system for treatment of mandibular fractures, based on use of special pins, is proposed. METHODS: Fifteen patients with non-displaced mandibular fractures (angle, body and symphysis), have been treated at the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, S. Paolo University Hospital, Milan. The system is based on pins formed by a no. 1 metal wire and a bead. The free end of the pin is threaded around a tooth and then wound three or four times around the bead to fix it in place and, at the same time, separate it from the gingiva. One pin is usually positioned on each quadrant. Once the pins are in place they are tied to each other using a loop no. 0 to complete the maxillo-mandibular fixation. Particular attention was paid to maintain a correct individual occlusion. The time of maxillo-mandibular block was 10-15 days. RESULTS: Results were good with complete healing of all fractures, restoration of individual occlusion, minimal periodontal lesions and a good compliance for the treatment by the patients. CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested to use this system routinely because quick, economic, easy on periodontium and relatively comfortable for the patients. The contraindication include an unstable occlusion, the absence of a suitable pair of teeth on both sides of the jaws, avulsion or trauma or periodontopathy of one of the teeth needed for the fixation system.