Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
intermaxillary fixation
Pronunciation: in-ter-mak-sil-air-ee fik-SAY-shun
Temporary wiring or banding of upper and lower jaws together during healing.
Full Definition
A surgical technique where the maxilla and mandible are temporarily secured together using wires, bands, or screws to maintain proper occlusion and jaw position during healing after orthognathic surgery or facial trauma. The duration of fixation varies from days to weeks depending on the procedure and healing progress. Patients require liquid or pureed diet and careful oral hygiene during the fixation period. Modern techniques often use removable intermaxillary fixation to allow jaw exercises.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as 'IMF' in clinical notes.
In Context
- "Intermaxillary fixation was maintained for two weeks following bilateral mandibular fracture repair." — Post-operative care plan
- "The patient was counseled on dietary modifications during the intermaxillary fixation period." — Patient education documentation
Also known as
IMF
jaw wiring
Don't confuse with
maxillomandibular fixation
rigid fixation