Abstract:

Objective

To evaluate the significance of cone beam computed tomography （CBCT）for accurate diagnose of mandible fracture and for the guidance of the operation designing.

Methods

A case of maxillofacial trauma was used for this report. A 38-year-old male patient was referred to Oral and Maxillofacial Department with a history of maxillofacial trauma. The history of patient revealed a traumatic injury on his face because worksite accidence. The patient was initially examined and diagnosed mandible fractures by panoramic film， but there isn't any information about the displacement of the fracture ends and we don't know the 3D structure about fracture ends. Therefore the 3D （CBCT）was performed.

Results

CBCT images can offer an accurate diagnosis； it can show the displacement of the fracture end， it can also give the surgeon a useful guidance for the operation process.

Conclusion

CBCT is a useful tool for making accurate diagnosis of maxillofacial trauma and can guide operation.

Key words: Mandible, Fracture, Displacement, Cone beam computed tomography, Internal fixation