Effects of nutritional intervention on total protein and albumin levels in patients with maxillofacial trauma receiving intermaxillary fixation: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) serves as a conventional approach for immobilizing jaws in the treatment of maxillofacial fractures. However, intermaxillary fixation poses challenges to nutritional status in the immediate postoperative phase, resulting in the depletion of water, fat, and protein reserves. The objective is to evaluate the variations in total protein and albumin levels at distinct intervals throughout the treatment duration, aiming to elucidate the impact of intermaxillary fixation on nutritional markers. METHODOLOGY: A total of 144 patients with jaw fractures presenting to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Govt. Dental College, Calicut, necessitating maxillomandibular fixation, were enrolled irrespective of etiology. They were randomly allocated into two groups: the Nutrition Intervention Group (GROUP 1) and the Nutrition Non-intervention Group (GROUP 2). Biochemical parameters including total protein and serum albumin were assessed. Measurements were conducted on the day of MMF initiation, as well as after the 2nd and 4th weeks thereafter. RESULTS: Significant variations were observed in the protein and albumin levels, with an increase in group 1 and a decrease in group 2 patients following maxillomandibular fixation (MMF). CONCLUSION: This study highlights the significant impact of personalized nutritional intervention on total protein and albumin levels in patients undergoing maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) for jaw fractures. Compared to the non-intervention group, those receiving tailored dietary counselling showed marked improvements in both protein and albumin levels. This emphasizes the importance of individualized nutritional support during MMF, essential for tissue repair, immune function, and overall recovery.