Antibiotic use in mandibular fracture surgery – An international survey and a review of the literature

Objective. To clarify antibiotic use by oral and maxillofacial surgeons in mandibular fracture patients and evaluate practices based on scientific evidence.
Material and methods. We assessed antibiotic use in simple symphysis and angle mandibular fractures among oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the Nordic countries through an e-survey. In addition, we performed a literature review of antibiotic administration in mandibular fracture surgery.
Results. A total of 41 oral and maxillofacial surgeons who treat mandibular fractures responded to the questionnaire. Timing and duration of antibiotic use varied. The duration of postoperative antibiotic treatment ranged from 1 to 7 days (mean 5.6 days). Respondents’ practices were not in concordance with scientific evidence. According to previous studies, restricting antibiotic exposure to a maximum of 24 hours postoperatively was not related to a higher risk of surgical site infections. No articles described a benefit of prolonged postoperative antibiotic therapy.
Conclusions. Antibiotic use in connection with mandibular fracture treatment varied in the Nordic countries and antibiotic practices are not in concordance with the current literature. Restricting antibiotic exposure to a maximum of 24 hours postoperatively should be considered. Clear guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis as part of the surgical management of mandibular fractures are required.