Final answer:
Mandible fractures are typically treated with a combination of closed reduction and surgery. Closed reduction involves manually manipulating the broken bone to set it in place, while surgery may be necessary for more complex fractures. Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the fracture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mandible fractures, or fractures of the lower jaw, are typically treated with a combination of surgical and non-surgical methods depending on the severity of the fracture. In cases where the fracture is not severe and the bone fragments are in proper alignment, closed reduction can be performed. This involves manually manipulating the broken bone to set it into its natural position without the need for surgery.
However, in cases where the fracture is more complex or the bone fragments cannot be properly aligned, surgery may be necessary. Open reduction involves making an incision to directly access the fractured bone and placing it back into its proper position. In some cases, the fractured fragments may need to be held together with metal plates, screws, or wires to promote proper healing.
After the fracture has been treated, the patient may need to follow a soft or liquid diet to allow the mandible to heal properly. Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the fracture, but it generally takes several weeks for the bone to fully heal.