(A233) Postoperative Eating Habits and Quality of Life in Mandible Fracture Repairs Comparing MMF vs ORIF

Introduction: Because both Maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) and Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) are used in reparation of condylar and subcondylar mandible fractures, we aimed to compare each technique and its respective postoperative eating habits and quality of life (QoL).

Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients who presented to the ENT and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OOMFS) departments at Louisiana State University Health Shreveport with an operative condylar or subcondylar mandible fracture. A total of 16 patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical technique that was used: ORIF with MMF or ORIF alone. The postoperative eating habits and quality of life were assessed using the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI).

Results: [Data Collection still in progress]. Of the 16 patients that were contacted and called, only 3 patients were able to provide responses for the GOHAI questionnaire. The average GOHAI score for patients treated with ORIF alone was 24.5, while the GOHAI score for the patient treated with ORIF with MMF was 22. The lowered GOHAI scores in patients treated with ORIF and MMF indicates less discomfort masticating firm foods.

Conclusions: ORIF/MMF appears to offer advantages over ORIF in improving postoperative quality of life associated with eating habits in patients recovering from condylar and subcondylar mandible fractures. As a result, ORIF/MMF may be the preferred technique for surgeons to optimize patient recovery and enhance long term oral health and patient quality of life follow mandible fracture repair. More patients will be needed to strengthen the generalization made for ORIF with MMF.