Intermaxillary Fixation
Also written as: IMF — Intermaxillary Fixation
The temporary wiring or banding together of the upper and lower jaws in occlusion to stabilise jaw fractures or osteotomy sites during healing.
Full Definition
Intermaxillary fixation (IMF) is a surgical technique in which the maxilla and mandible are held together in a defined occlusal relationship using wires, elastics, or arch bars. It is employed following jaw fracture repair, orthognathic surgery, or mandibular osteotomies to immobilise the bony segments and allow osseous healing. The duration of fixation varies from days to several weeks depending on the indication. Editors must use the abbreviation IMF only after first defining it in full and must distinguish IMF from 'intermaxillary traction', which uses elastics to guide tooth movement rather than rigidly immobilise the jaws.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as IMF after first use. 'Maxillomandibular fixation' (MMF) is an acceptable synonym frequently used in North American publications; be consistent within a single document.
In Context
- "Intermaxillary fixation (IMF) was maintained for four weeks following the sagittal split osteotomy." — Operative Report
- "The discharge letter specified that intermaxillary fixation wires were to be removed at the two-week follow-up appointment." — Discharge Letter