JAW FRACTURES Meaning and
Definition
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Jaw fractures, also known as mandibular fractures, refer to the breakage or disruption of the bones that form the lower part of the human face. The jaw consists of two primary bones, the mandible, which is the lower jawbone, and the maxilla, which is the upper jawbone. Jaw fractures typically involve fractures in the mandible bone, as it is more susceptible to injury compared to the maxilla.
These fractures can occur due to various reasons, including falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, physical altercations, and even certain medical conditions that weaken the bones. The severity of jaw fractures can vary, ranging from simple cracks or small fissures in the bone to more complex fractures that involve multiple breaks and displacement of the bone fragments.
Common symptoms of jaw fractures include pain, swelling, difficulty in opening or closing the mouth, misalignment of the teeth, numbness or tingling in the chin or lower lip, and bruising or discoloration of the face. In severe cases, an open or compound fracture may occur, where the broken bone pierces through the skin, leading to bleeding and increased risk of infection.
Treatment for jaw fractures typically involves immobilization of the jaw to promote healing. This can be achieved by using wires, plates, or screws to realign and stabilize the broken bone fragments. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair complex fractures or address associated injuries to the soft tissues.
Prompt medical attention is essential for individuals suspected to have jaw fractures, as proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as infection or long-term deformity.
Common Misspellings for JAW FRACTURES
- haw fractures
- naw fractures
- maw fractures
- kaw fractures
- iaw fractures
- uaw fractures
- jzw fractures
- jsw fractures
- jww fractures
- jqw fractures
- jaq fractures
- jaa fractures
- jas fractures
- jae fractures
- ja3 fractures
- ja2 fractures
- jaw dractures
- jaw cractures
- jaw vractures
- jaw gractures
Etymology of JAW FRACTURES
The term "jaw fractures" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "jaw" and "fractures".
1. Jaw: The word "jaw" originated from the Old English word "geg(e)a" and the Middle English word "jawe". It is believed to have Germanic roots, as seen in the Old Norse word "gǫgr", meaning "jawbone" or "chin". The term "jaw" refers to the bones of the lower part of the face that contain the teeth, such as the mandible.
2. Fractures: The word "fractures" comes from the Latin word "fractura", which is the past participle of the verb "frangere", meaning "to break" or "to shatter".
