Utilization of Intermaxilar Fixation Screws as Anchors in the Treatment of the Mandible Recurrent Dislocation.

PROPOSE: This paper aims to describe a modification of the Wolford technique by replacing the Mitek anchors with bone screws.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION: Two intermaxillary fixation screws locking screws, with 2.0 mm in diameter and 8 mm in length, are used in each temporomandibular joint, one of which is fixed to the root of the zygomatic arch and another to the lateral pole of the mandibular condyle. Ethibond 2-0 thread is passed through the holes in the 2 ipsilateral screws, thus acting as an artificial ligament limiting the range of the mouth opening.

CONCLUSION

The technique described was effective in preventing mandibular dislocation while allowing satisfactory mouth opening range. This technique has easy handling and low cost.