MAXILLOMANDIBULAR FIXATION Meaning and
Definition
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Maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) refers to a surgical procedure or technique performed to immobilize the upper and lower jaws securely through the use of specialized devices or materials. This fixative approach is typically employed in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery to treat various conditions, including facial trauma, jaw fractures, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
During the maxillomandibular fixation procedure, the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) are brought into proper alignment and firmly held together to facilitate healing, alignment correction, or functional improvement. This is achieved by utilizing wires, screws, plates, rubber bands, elastics, or other types of hardware specifically designed for MMF.
The process usually involves the careful positioning of the jaws followed by the installation of the fixation devices. The devices are secured to the teeth, bone surfaces, or external facial structures, offering stability and preventing unintended movements of the jaws during the healing period.
Maxillomandibular fixation serves several purposes, such as allowing fractured bones to heal correctly, reducing pain or discomfort associated with TMJ disorders, maintaining jaw alignment after corrective jaw surgery, or aiding in the recovery of oral function following various dental or surgical procedures. Physical therapy and other forms of jaw rehabilitation may be performed alongside MMF to maximize therapeutic outcomes.
Overall, maxillomandibular fixation is a surgical technique used to immobilize the upper and lower jaws using specialized devices, aiding in the treatment of various jaw conditions by facilitating proper bone alignment, healing, and functional improvement.
Common Misspellings for MAXILLOMANDIBULAR FIXATION
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Etymology of MAXILLOMANDIBULAR FIXATION
The word "Maxillomandibular Fixation" is derived from two main components: maxillo- and mandibular fixation.
1. Maxillo-: This term is derived from the Latin word "maxilla", meaning jawbone or upper jaw. It is used to refer to the maxilla or upper jaw, which is part of the facial skeleton.
2. Mandibular: The term "mandibular" is derived from the Latin word "mandibula", meaning jaw or lower jaw. It pertains to the mandible or lower jaw, which is the movable part of the jaw.
3. Fixation: This term comes from the Latin word "fixare", meaning to fix or fasten. In the medical context, it refers to the act of holding or stabilizing a body part in a fixed position.
