Maxillary and Mandibular Nerve Block

Mandibular fractures are among the most common (60-70%) maxillofacial fractures observed in emergency rooms. In the closed reduction (non-surgical), the bone fragments are realigned manually or by using traction devices. The open reduction surgery of mandibular fractures should first ensure the restoration of the occlusion of the mandible to prevent postoperative malocclusion, followed by stabilization by means of rigid fixations such as plates, screws, and rigid intermaxillary blocks in order to minimise any nonunion, malunion, or delayed union of the fracture segments. These surgical procedures are associated with moderate postoperative pain, being the first 24 hours the most intense pain period. Maxillary and mandibular nerve blocks are performed in patients with refractory trigeminal neuralgia. However, there have been few studies evaluating the analgesic effects of these blocks for maxillofacial surgeries.