IMF Screws Deemed Safe for Pediatric Facial Fractures: Study

A new study published in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery has shown that intermaxillary fixation (IMF) screws are a safe and effective method for stabilizing pediatric facial fractures, with no significant complications observed during long-term follow-up.

Researchers evaluated pediatric patients who underwent IMF screw placement for facial trauma and found that the technique provided reliable fracture stabilization without disrupting dental development or causing long-term adverse effects.

This challenges previous concerns about using screws in growing bones, particularly in children with developing dentition. According to the study, no instances of dental root damage or delayed eruption were found, and the IMF screws were well tolerated throughout the recovery period. Patients were followed up over extended periods, allowing researchers to assess both immediate and late-stage outcomes, further reinforcing the screws’ safety profile.

The use of IMF screws also offered advantages such as reduced operative time, easier intraoperative placement, and improved oral hygiene access compared to traditional wiring techniques. These benefits make IMF screws a compelling alternative in managing pediatric maxillofacial injuries, especially in cases requiring quick stabilization and minimal invasiveness.

The authors note that careful placement by experienced surgeons remains essential, but their findings strongly support broader adoption of this technique in pediatric facial trauma cases. As facial injuries in children can have lasting developmental and functional implications, safe and efficient stabilization methods like IMF screws can significantly improve long-term outcomes while minimizing procedural risks. This study provides valuable data for surgeons and pediatric trauma specialists when determining the best treatment approach for young patients with facial fractures.