The Roger Anderson method of external skeletal fixation has been adapted for fractures of the edentulous mandible. External skeletal fixation promises to be extremely useful in the compound war wounds with multiple fractures. Each fragment can be controlled by a pin unit while intra-oral care, as well as dressings of the facial wounds, are carried out.
The advantages of the method are that it allows the accurate control of the fragments, and permits the patient to open and close his mouth and to masticate.
The disadvantage of the method is the possibility of infection. Asepsis should be observed during the insertion of the pins and contact with the mouth should be strictly avoided.