A broken jaw, medically termed as a mandibular (lower jaw) fracture or maxillary (upper jaw) fracture, can be a painful and distressing experience. When faced with such an injury, seeking prompt and specialized expert care is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. In Colorado, residents have access to Rocky Mountain Surgical Arts, a state-of-the-art Oral and Maxillofacial and Facial Cosmetic Surgery facility. Our triple board-certified surgeon, Dr. Kayvan Fathimani, has lectured throughout the country and published numerous articles on jaw fractures. In this blog, we delve into the role of Dr. Fathimani as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in managing jaw fractures and highlight the exceptional services provided by Rocky Mountain Surgical Arts.
Understanding Jaw (Maxillary or Mandibular) Fractures
The jaw is a vital component of the facial structure, responsible for essential functions such as chewing, speaking and facial symmetry. Jaw fractures can occur due to various reasons, where trauma is the leading cause (ie: accidents, sport injuries, or assaults). Symptoms of a broken jaw may include pain, swelling, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, bruising, misalignment of teeth and facial numbness.
Role of Dr. Fathimani as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and Facial Cosmetic Surgeon
When it comes to treating a broken jaw, the specialized expertise of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons is indispensable. Dr. Fathimani routinely performs these procedures. He underwent extensive training, encompassing both dental and medical knowledge, to diagnose and manage injuries and conditions affecting the oral and facial regions. Dr. Fathimani possess the skills and necessary experience to handle complex facial fractures, including those involving the upper and lower jaw.
Treatment Options
The approach to treating a broken jaw depends on various factors, such as the extent and location of the fracture, the presence of associated injuries and the patient’s overall health. At Rocky Mountain Surgical Arts, patients can expect comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs.
Treatment options may include:
- Closed Reduction: In cases where the fracture is not severely displaced, Dr. Fathimani may realign the bone fragments without the need for invasive surgery. This approach, known as closed reduction, often involves the application of wires to stabilize the jaw during the healing process. 2)
- OpenReduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): For more complex fractures, surgical intervention is recommended. During an ORIF, Dr. Fathimani makes incisions to access the fractured bony segments, then reduces (repositions) them into the proper alignment and secures them in place using specialized hardware such as plates and screws.
This image illustrates a lower jaw fracture with subsequent ORIF of the fracture.
Postoperative Care
Following surgical treatment, diligent postoperative care is essential to promote healing and minimize complications. Patients at Rocky Mountain Surgical Arts receive comprehensive instructions on oral hygiene, dietary modifications, pain management and follow-up appointments to ensure optimal recovery.
Why Choose Rocky Mountain Surgical Arts
Located in Lone Tree, Colorado, Rocky Mountain Surgical Arts is renowned for its commitment to excellence, led by our triple board-certified surgeon, Dr. Fathimani. His practice is a leading center in the United States specialized in treating a wide range of facial injuries and conditions, including broken jaws. Patients benefit from a state-of-the-art facility, access to an on-site operating room, compassionate care and personalized treatment plans designed to achieve optimal outcomes with a nationaly recognized and board certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and Facial Cosmetic Surgeon.
Conclusion
A broken jaw requires timely and expert attention to ensure proper healing and restoration of function. At Rocky Mountain Surgical Arts in Lone Tree, Colorado, patients can trust in the expertise of Dr. Fathimani who is dedicated to providing exceptional care for jaw fractures and jaw injuries. If you or a loved one has experienced a broken jaw, don’t hesitate to contact Rocky Mountain Surgical Arts for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment tailored to your specific needs.