Tooth in the line of angle fractures: The impact in the healing process. A retrospective study of 112 patients

Background: There is no consensus regarding the prophylactic removal of mandibular third molars (TM) in fracture lines to facilitate healing. Recent evidence suggests that poor healing is attributed to the limited use of antimicrobials, delayed care and semi-rigid fixation as a treatment method, favoring retention of TM. Study design: A retrospective cohort study of all patients presenting with mandibular angle fractures at the Hippokration General Hospital of Athens (2006-2011) was designed to examine the association between the presence versus absence of TMs in the line of mandibular fractures and the fracture healing process. Development of complications during the healing process was the outcome of interest. Additional factors considered were patient age, sex, and fracture etiology. Materials and methods: Data were extracted from a retrospective chart review, including information from clinical and radiological examinations. The analytical sample included 112 patients with 121 angle fractures. Bivariate methods including Fisher's exact and chi-square tests were used to test the association between TM presence in the fracture line and healing complications. Conclusion: This study found no association between the presence of mandibular TM in the fracture line and postoperative complications and the healing process when combined with light intermaxillary fixation for 15 days. (C) 2014 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.