Management of Mandibular Fracture from Ballistic Injury: An Emergency Surgical Approach

Mandibular fractures resulting from ballistic impact represent a significant challenge in Maxillofacial Surgery due to the high-energy impact involved. Their classical presentation includes comminuted fractures with extensive soft tissue damage. Early stabilization and the removal of foreign bodies are essential to prevent complications such as infections and bone necrosis. To describe the clinical complexity of mandibular fractures resulting from ballistic projectiles, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and appropiate surgical intervention. We present the case of a 17-year-old male patient with a left mandibular body fracture caused by a firearm injury. Surgical management involved the extraction of the projectile, extraction of the affected teeth, and fixation with osteosynthesis plates. The procedure was successful and led to a favorable recovery. This case underscores the importance of timely surgical intervention to minimize complications and enhance both functional and aesthetic recovery, highlighting the complexity of treatment in an emergency context, where patient stabilization and immediate resolution of injuries are the top priorities.

KEY WORDS: Mandibular fractures, wounds, gunshot, fracture fixation internal, maxillofacial injuries, emergency treatment.