Emergency War Surgery NATO Handbook: Part IV: Regional Wounds and Injuries: Chapter XXIII: Maxillofacial Wounds and Injuries

Postoperative Management

United States Department of Defense

Patients without intermaxillary fixation may be given all ordinary fluids and soft foods which require little or no chewing. If intermaxillary fixation has been used, the diet, which must be thin enough to suck through a tube, should consist of such nourishing items as milk and milk products, any of several commercially available dietary supplements in liquid form, thin custards, and thick soups. Feedings should be at frequent intervals and in adequate amounts.

If it is necessary to protect the lips from the wires used in intermaxillary fixation, pieces of soft wax are useful. Lubrication of the lips and nostrils will help to prevent fissures and ulcers.

After repair of maxillofacial wounds, a pressure dressing is applied whenever possible and left in place for at least 48 hours. Sutures are removed on the fourth or fifth day.  

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Operational Medicine 2001

Health Care in Military Settings

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