Utilization of Intermaxilar Fixation Screws as Anchors in the Treatment of the Mandible Recurrent Dislocation

PROPOSE: This paper aims to describe a modification of the Wolford technique by replacing the Mitek anchors with bone screws. TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION: Two intermaxillary fixation screws locking screws, with 2.0 mm in diameter and 8 mm in length, are used in each temporomandibular joint, one of which is fixed to the root of the zygomatic arch and another to the lateral pole of the mandibular condyle. Ethibond 2-0 thread is passed through the holes in the 2 ipsilateral screws, thus acting as an artificial ligament limiting the range of the mouth opening. CONCLUSION: The technique described was effective in preventing mandibular dislocation while allowing satisfactory mouth opening range. This technique has easy handling and low cost.