Unrecognized Mandibular Angular Fracture: An Extraordinary Cause of Deep Neck Infection

Abstract

Deep neck infections should be instantly diagnosed and treated because of high morbidity and mortality rates. Radiologic imaging plays an important role in determining etiology and diagnosis and the treatment is planned accordingly. We present a 44-year old female patient with a 15 day history of oral antibiotic treatment for dental infection before admission. The patient was hospitalized and put on IV antibiotics. Computerized tomography with contrast revealed fndings consistent with an abscess and pus was drained surgically. Panoramic mandible graphy revealed a non-displaced mandibular angular fracture unrecognized by the computerized tomography. The patient underwent tooth removal and internal fxation of the fracture with mini plate and screws. Besides computerized tomography, panoramic mandible graphy is a must for evaluation of mandibular fractures. © 2011 OMÜ Tüm haklari saklidir.