title: The Comprehensive AOCMF Classification System: Mandible Fractures- Level 2 Tutorial.
abstract: This tutorial outlines the details of the AOCMF image-based classification system for fractures of the mandible at the precision level 2 allowing description of their topographical distribution. A short introduction about the anatomy is made. Mandibular fractures are classified by the anatomic regions involved. For this purpose, the mandible is delineated into an array of nine regions identified by letters: the symphysis/parasymphysis region anteriorly, two body regions on each lateral side, combined angle and ascending ramus regions, and finally the condylar and coronoid processes. A precise definition of the demarcation lines between these regions is given for the unambiguous allocation of fractures. Four transition zones allow an accurate topographic assignment if fractures end up in or run across the borders of anatomic regions. These zones are defined between angle/ramus and body, and between body and symphysis/parasymphysis. A fracture is classified as "confined" as long as it is located within a region, in contrast to a fracture being "nonconfined" when it extents to an adjoining region. Illustrations and case examples of mandible fractures are presented to become familiar with the classification procedure in daily routine.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Ludwig Maximilians Universität, München, Germany.
authors.forename: Carl-Peter
authors.initials: CP
authors.lastname: Cornelius
authors.affiliation: AO Clinical Investigation and Documentation, AO Foundation, Düebendorf, Switzerland ; Research and Development Department, Schulthess Clinic, Zürich, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Laurent
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Audigé
authors.affiliation: Clinic for Oral and Craniomaxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Christoph
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Kunz
authors.affiliation: Plastic, Reconstruction and Maxillofacial Surgery, Alpharetta, Georgia.
authors.forename: Randal
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Rudderman
authors.affiliation: Institute of Radiology, Zofingen Hospital, Zofingen, Switzerland ; Hightech Research Center for CMF Surgery, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Carlos H
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Buitrago-Téllez
authors.affiliation: Division of Facial Plastic Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, Pennsylvania.
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Frodel
authors.affiliation: Clinic for Oral and Craniomaxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Joachim
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Prein
keywords: anatomic regions; confined fractures; fracture classification; mandible; transition zones