Prevalence of Mandibular Fractures in a Government Medical College at Ranchi

Abstract

Context: The unique position, shape and structure of the lower jaw lead to its high incidence of fracture. The mandible is a membranous long bone bent to a horse shoe shape. Even though it is very strong, its prominent position on the face makes it vulnerable to fracture. The fracture can occur in different parts of the bone, sometimes at multiple sites too, depending upon the nature of the impact. Aim and Setting and Design: The purpose of this study is to determine the etiology, pattern and distribution of mandibular fractures in a Government Medical College at Ranchi, Jharkhand. Methods and Materials: The study was carried out in the dental OPD of a Government Medical College at Ranchi, Jharkhand from June 2013 to November 2014. All patients who were clinically and radio graphically confirmed fracture mandible were examined and all demographic variables (age, gender, place, education, occupation, tobacco habit and duration of habit) were recorded. The pattern and cause of mandibular fracture were included and sites were classified accordingly as ramus, condyle, symphysis, body, parasymphysis and angle. Statistical Analysis: Simple descriptive statistics were employed for the analysis. Results and Conclusion: The present study concluded Road Traffic Accidents as the most common cause for mandibular fractures. Also, parasymphyseal fracture was the commonest unilateral and parasymphysis and condyle as commonest combined fracture of the mandible..