The Minne Skinny November 2025

Invisian Medical
Nov 18, 2025
3 min read

Minne Ties® Anchorage for Elasto-Physiotherapy

Massachusetts General Hospital

Joseph P. McCain, DMD, FACS

Adit Gadh, DMD, Jason Adam, DDS

Maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) continues to be a fundamental technique in the management of facial skeletal injuries and reconstructive procedures. Traditional Minne Ties® (dental occlusion ties) represent a novel, minimally invasive approach to MMF that combines rapid application and secure occlusal stabilization. Minne Ties Anchorage Ties include a new hook that facilitates the application of elastics. We present our clinical experience with Minne Ties for MMF, and the new Minne Ties Anchorage Ties employed postoperatively with elastic guidance to achieve dynamic mandibular stabilization and support for joint rehabilitation. Postoperative assessment demonstrates stable joint function, improved occlusion, and patient satisfaction with the device, highlighting Minne Ties as an effective adjunct for TMJ surgical recovery. In contrast to conventional fixation systems such as arch bars, wires, and screw-based devices, Minne Ties offer a non-invasive alternative. However, utilization of dental occlusion ties for MMF is not applicable for all patients, including those with compromised occlusion with missing dentition, loose teeth, many open interproximal contacts, comminuted fractures, and periodontal disease.

At MGH, we apply Minne Ties with the “traditional” application method from arch to arch to achieve stable MMF for appropriate patients when needed. Typically, cases have included temporary intraoperative MMF for ORIF mandible fractures and other facial fractures, orthognathic cases when orthodontic appliances are not present, and TMJ total joint replacement cases. Minne Ties have also been applied in clinic for closed reduction of minimally displaced mandible fractures. Patients have tolerated Minne Ties well and endorse pre-morbid occlusion following removal.

The utility of MMF techniques extends beyond traditional mandibular stabilization, finding important applications in post-operative elastic physiotherapy following TMJ arthroscopic procedures and TMJ total joint replacement surgery. We have begun to utilize Minne Ties Anchorage Ties to achieve post-operative elastic physiotherapy without the need for additional dental hardware or traditionally invasive intermaxillary fixation techniques. Application of the Anchorage Ties involves circumdental placement through interdental embrasures. Each tie is typically placed in approximately one minute, which significantly reduces overall fixation time and enhances procedural efficiency in both OR and non-OR settings. Their low-profile design requires minimal intraoral space, thereby improving surgical field visibility and facilitating postoperative oral hygiene. The addition of a round protrusion on the white side of the clasp functions well as an anchorage point for elastics, enabling elasto-physiotherapy. For optimal positioning, the clasp should be aligned over the interdental space rather than directly over a tooth surface.

A 37 year-old female patient recently underwent bilateral Level II temporomandibular joint arthroscopy. Following the procedure, Minne Ties Anchorage Ties were placed bilaterally in the maxillary and mandibular arches, and medium orthodontic elastics were applied to generate a Class II vector pull on the mandible, providing dynamic stabilization during the immediate postoperative period (Fig. 2).

Figure 2. Minne Ties® Application in Operating Room immediately post-completion of joint arthroscopy.

At the one-week follow-up, the patient reported mild dental sensitivity associated with the Minne Ties® on the left side; otherwise, she expressed satisfaction with the arthroscopic intervention and noted improvement in joint pain and function. She continued to adhere to prescribed physical therapy exercises and pharmacologic instructions. Progressive improvement in occlusion was observed with the use of left-side elastics. Several weeks postoperatively, the Minne Ties were removed (Fig. 3). Examination revealed stable joints and further improvement in occlusion. Follow-up was scheduled at three months postoperatively for consideration of orthodontic support in preparation for orthognathic surgery contingent on occlusal and joint stability.

Figure 3. Intraoral Photographs of Minne Ties® (elastics removed prior to photography). A) Right, B) Left, C) Frontal, D) Smile

This case demonstrates the practical utility of Minne Ties Anchorage Ties in postoperative TMJ management, providing efficient, non-invasive maxillomandibular fixation while facilitating elasto-physiotherapy. The device allowed for stable occlusal guidance, patient comfort, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Minne Ties may serve as a valuable alternative to traditional MMF methods, particularly in TMJ arthroscopic procedures, offering both surgical and patient-centered advantages. Further studies are warranted to evaluate long-term outcomes and broader applications in complex occlusal and TMJ disorders.

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As with most surgical procedures, there are risks associated with maxillomandibular fixation (MMF), including with Minne Ties. For complete information regarding indications for use, additional application and removal instructions, risks, contraindications, warnings, precautions and adverse events, please review the device’s Instructions for Use (IFU) included in the package and at www.minneties.com.