The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
This study will evaluate novel intraoral (inside-the-mouth) splints designed to gently stretch facial tissues that have become tight or scarred following facial trauma, including burn injuries and gunshot wounds. Scar contractures can limit mouth opening, facial movement, and facial expressions, affecting daily function and quality of life. Participants aged 7 years and older with facial contractures will be fitted with one or more silicone splints selected by a trained speech-language pathologist based on each participant's areas of restriction. The splints are available in different shapes and sizes and are designed to provide passive stretching to targeted areas of the face and mouth. Researchers will assess changes in facial mobility, mouth opening, facial symmetry, and range of facial expression using clinical measurements and facial movement analysis software. The study will also help identify appropriate treatment protocols for use of the splints. The researchers expect that use of the splints may improve facial movement and function, reduce the effects of scar contractures, and potentially decrease the need for future surgical procedures to improve facial mobility. Findings from this study may support a new treatment option for individuals with facial scarring due to burns or other traumatic injuries.
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 7-100 * Male or Female Sex * Patients who have sustained facial trauma, facial injury or a facial burn and are now in the chronic phase * Chief complaint(s) of limited mouth opening, difficulty chewing or speaking, decreased range of motion for oral structures, and/or limited facial expressions * Subject or caregiver (parent or guardian, in case of pediatric population) must be able to give informed consent * Subject or caregiver (parent or guardian, in case of pediatric population) must be able to perform exercises at home and must be able to record time spent using…
A set of three silicone intraoral splints (ball, bar, and boomerang shapes) designed to provide passive stretching of scarred or contracted orofacial tissues. Splints are available in multiple sizes and may be used unilaterally or bilaterally to target specific areas of facial tightness and restricted movement.