Application of a lateral compression clamp in the management of mandibular fractures.

A lateral compression clamp system has been used in the treatment of fractures of the mandible. It provides rigid fixation and promotes earlier osteogenesis at the fracture site. Intermaxillary fixation can often be eliminated in edentulous persons and greatly reduced in duration when necessary as an adjunct to fixation in patients with teeth. These significant qualities make the compression clamp quite beneficial in the treatment plan and postoperative management of many otherwise difficult cases. Having evaluated our experiences with compression clamps, we believe that this approach deserves further attention and may contribute to a solution of the controversy that often exists regarding the management of mandibular fractures in both edentulous patients and those with a compromised complement of teeth.