Fracture reconstructive surgery is a type of surgery that is used to repair and reconstruct facial bones that have been broken or fractured. This surgery can fix many facial fractures, including jaw, cheekbones, and eye sockets. The goal of fracture reconstructive surgery is to restore the normal function and appearance of the face as much as possible.
The first step in fracture reconstructive surgery is repositioning the broken bones back into their correct position. This is typically done under general anesthesia and may involve wires, plates, or screws to hold the bones in place. Once the bones are properly aligned, the surgeon will use various techniques to repair any damage to the surrounding soft tissue, such as the skin, muscles, and tendons.
What is Fracture Reconstructive Surgery?
Reconstructive surgery can also be done in conjunction with other procedures, such as maxillofacial surgery, which is used to correct the position of the jaw, or orbital surgery, which is used to repair injuries to the eye sockets.
Recovery time and post-operative care will vary depending on the extent of the injury and the type of surgery performed. Patients may need to wear a splint or brace to keep the bones in place during healing, and they may need to follow a special diet and take pain medication to manage discomfort. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore normal function and range of motion to the face.
What are the Types of Fracture Reconstructive Surgery?
Several different types of fracture reconstructive surgery can be used to repair and reconstruct facial bones that have been broken or fractured. Some of the most common types include:
- Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) – This type of surgery involves repositioning the broken bones and using plates, screws, or wires to hold them in place while they heal. ORIF is often used to repair fractures of the jaw, cheekbones, and eye sockets.
- Le Fort fractures – Le Fort fractures are a type of facial fracture involving separating the upper jaw from the skull. Surgery for Le Fort fractures typically involves repositioning the broken bones and using plates, screws, or wires to hold the bones in place.
- Zygomatic fractures – Zygomatic fractures, also known as cheekbone fractures, are a common type of facial fracture. Surgery for zygomatic fractures typically involves repositioning the broken bones and using plates, screws, or wires to hold the bones in place.
- Mandibular fractures – Mandibular fractures, also known as jaw fractures, can be repaired with various surgical techniques, including ORIF, intermaxillary fixation (IMF), and mandibular osteotomy.
- Naso-orbital-ethmoid (NOE) fractures – NOE fractures are a type of facial fracture that involves the nose, eye sockets, and the bones surrounding the eyes. Surgery for NOE fractures typically involves repositioning the broken bones and using plates, screws, or wires to hold the bones in place.
- Orbital fractures – Orbital fractures are a type of facial fracture that involves the bones surrounding the eye. Surgery for orbital fractures typically involves repositioning the broken bones and using plates, screws, or wires to hold the bones in place.
The choice of surgical technique will depend on the fracture’s nature and location and the surgeon’s skill and experience. Recovery time and post-operative care will vary depending on the extent of the injury and the type of surgery performed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fracture reconstructive surgery is a specialized type used to repair and reconstruct facial bones that have been broken or fractured. It is a complex and delicate procedure that requires a skilled and experienced surgeon. The goal of the surgery is to restore normal function and appearance of the face as much as possible, and the success of the surgery can be affected by various factors. Post-operative care is also important for the healing process, and the recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the injury.
