Imaging Studies
See the list below:
-
Panorex
Panorex is the study of choice. The patient must be cooperative and motionless while the radiograph machine rotates. Patient movement may simulate a fracture. Most available equipment requires the patient to be able to sit upright; therefore, this examination may not be possible in critically ill patients or those with suspected cervical spine injuries. (Some facilities have special equipment for the supine patient.)
A series of plain radiograph views may provide similar information and often are easier to obtain in the acute trauma setting.
-
Plain radiography: Standard radiograph views that evaluate the mandible include the following:
Lateral oblique view - Provides the best view of the mandible from the condyle to the mental foramen
Posteroanterior (PA) view - Can visualize displacement of fractures of the ramus, angle, and body and fractures of the anterior mandible that may be obscured by the vertebral bodies
Towne occipitofrontal view - Demonstrates condylar fractures and displacement medially or laterally
Mandibular occlusal views - Demonstrate symphyseal displacement
Dental radiographs - May prove useful in alveolar fractures or dental root fractures
-
CT scanning
Thin-section (≤ 3 mm) CT scans through the mandible can be useful.
Direct coronal images and/or 3-dimensional or multiplanar reconstructions can help delineate relation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
-
Anatomy of the mandible.
