A Comparative Prospective Study of Three different Bone Plating Methods for treatment of Mandibular Symphysis and Parasymphysis Fractures

Abstract

Background: Recently, various modifications in placing miniplates for direct fixation of the mandibular fracture are gaining popularity. The modifications have various advantages like more rigidity, less foreign material, less time in application, etc. Thus the purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate outcomes for three bone plating techniques used in the treatment of mandibular symphysis/ parasymphysis fractures. Material and Methods:A prospective study was conducted on 45 patients with mandibular symphysis/parasymphysis fractures and the patients were divided into 3 groups (A, B and C). Patients were followed for 3 months. Outcome parameters like occlusion, distraction of lower border radiologically, parasthesia, infection, failure of bone plate (plate fracture) and screw loosening, postoperative segmental stability and radiological evaluation of fixation were recorded.Results: Distraction of lower border was seen in all the groups which were noticed radiographically at all follow ups. There was no occlusal discrepancy present in all the groups after three months post operatively. The fracture segments were stable in all groups at all times. Parasthesia was noticed in all the groups, which gradually decreased in one month and resolved completely by third month follow up. The degree of parasthesia, distraction of lower border, occlusal discrepancy was not statistically significant between the three groups. Hardware failure was not found in all the groups. Conclusion:It can be concluded that conventional miniplate system is a better and easier method than the 3D miniplate system for fixation of mandibular fractures. In comparison, the 3D miniplate system is unfavorable for use in cases of oblique fractures and those involving the mental nerve, and is also difficult to adapt.

3-Dimensional Plates Versus Conventional Mini plates in Maxillofacial Trauma- A Review

“…Duration of surgery is minimal while the surgeons used 3D plates compared to conventional plates. Al-Moraissi and Ellis (2014); Shapoo et al (2017) also reported that the operative time is shorter while they used 3D plates. However in angle region placement of 3-D plates required extra time as reported by Feledy et al (2004); Sadhwani and Anchlia (2013).…”