title: Use of orthodontic mini-implants for maxillomandibular fixation in mandibular fracture.
abstract: Orthodontic appliances for skeletal anchorage are becoming increasingly more common in clinical practice. Similarly, different terms such as mini-implants, microimplants, and miniscrews have been used. There is a wide array of appliances currently on the market, in different designs and sizes, diameters, degree of titanium purity, and surface treatment. These appliances have been used for a variety of indications, including tooth retraction, intrusion, and traction. This study aimed to report the clinical case of a 19-year-old patient with a fractured mandible and to propose a novel use of mini-implants: the perioperative placement of mini-implants as anchors for maxillomandibular fixation steel wire ligatures. We concluded that this appliance provides an effective maxillomandibular fixation in patients with mandibular fracture, with little increase in the cost of surgery.
authors.affiliation: Specialization Course in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Trauma, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
authors.forename: Mario Sergio Medeiros
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Pires
authors.forename: Leandro Calcagno
authors.initials: LC
authors.lastname: Reinhardt
authors.forename: Guilherme de Marco
authors.initials: Gde M
authors.lastname: Antonello
authors.forename: Ricardo
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Torres do Couto