What is Coleman's Sign?
Introduction
Coleman's sign is described as Sublingual Hematoma which is a pathognomonic sign of Mandibular body fracture seen as effusion of blood into the tissues of floor of mouth, elevating its mucous membrane and producing a characteristic bluish, tense swelling beneath the tongue
Causes of Coleman's Sign
- Road Traffic Accidents
- Fall from height
- Occupational hazards
- Interpersonal fights
- Counter Coup fracture
Clinical Features of Coleman's Sign
- Mandibular body fracture
- Step deformity in chin region
- Blood clot seen in floor of mouth (Sublingual Hematoma)
- Pain / tenderness
- Swelling
- Inability to close mouth
- Drooling of saliva
- Numbness
- Soft tissue injury to chin and lower lip
- Open bite or mandibular deviation
- Obstructive respiration
Treatment Of Coleman's Sign
- Proper assessment of case
- Radiographic examination of fracture site eg. Panoramic, Lateral Oblique view, posteroanterior view, Occlusal view, Periapical view and CT scan
- Soft Tissue management
- Analgesics and Antibiotics prescribed
- Management of fracture by Reduction, Fixation and Immobilization
- Follow up and assessment
