Flexible maxillo-mandibular fixation device

Abstract

A system for achieving maxillo-mandibular fixation includes a bone fixation device including a bone fixation body formed from a plurality of links. The links define corresponding crests and valleys so as to impart flexibility into the bone fixation body. Thus, the bone fixation body can be aligned with the dental arch of the mandible and maxilla as necessary, and subsequently fastened to the underlying bone. Each bone fixation device includes at least one securement location on the fixation body that can attach to a securement device, such that the securement device fixes or stabilizes the mandible and the maxilla with respect to each other.

Description

Background technique [0001] The fixation or stabilization of the occlusal surfaces of the upper and lower arches relative to each other is called intermaxillary fixation (IMF), also known as mandibular fixation (MMF). MMF has historically been used to treat fractures, orthognathic and reconstructive jaw surgery. Various methods for achieving MMF are known in the art. [0002] The periodontal ligation technique involves placing metal wires around one or more teeth and then twisting them in various ways to secure the teeth. The wires or twisted wires can be formed into a cable and twisted around each other to stabilize the dental arch. The curvature formed on the lower teeth can be ligated to the curvature formed around the upper teeth to stabilize the upper to lower dentition. Although the materials used in periodontal ligation are relatively inexpensive, the technique is cumbersome and time-consuming. Wires may also affect oral hygiene. [0003] Another conventional techn...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, the system lacks overall structural stability, which may be necessary, for example, to resolve fractures around teeth

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