Characterization of mandibular fractures using 64-slice multidetector CT

Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize mandibular fracture locations using 64-slice multidetector CT (MDCT). Methods: CT scans of 138 patients with mandibular fractures who underwent 64-slice MDCT were studied. Mandibular fractures were classified into five types: median, paramedian, angle, condylar and coronoid process. Statistical analysis for the relationship between multiple fractures and type of mandibular fractures was performed using chi(2) test with Fisher's exact test. Results: The percentage of multiple mandibular fractures was 80.9% median type, 74.3% paramedian type, 52.9% angle type and 60.9% condylar type. The resultant data showed a significant relationship between multiple fractures and the median type (p = 0.000), paramedian type (p = 0.002) and condylar type (p = 0.003). Conclusion: The results suggest that multiple fractures are related to the type of mandibular fractures. Dentomaxillofacial Radiology (2012) 41, 392-395. doi: 10.1259/dmfr/67127210