Removal of Miniplates in Maxillofacial Surgery: A Follow-Up Study

The fate of titanium miniplates and screws used in maxillofacial surgery: A 10 year retrospective study

“…This compares favourably with previous studies, which report removal rates of 6-10% in trauma patients. 3,14,24,25 The low minplate removal rate in this study may be related to the study population and compliance with treatment. Patients are managed using a strict antibiotic protocol, thus reducing the potential for postoperative infection.…”

“…Other studies report miniplate removal rates of 6-14%. 3,5,21,24,25,29 In the maxillofacial trauma group, 800 plates were placed in 434 patients and 31 (4%) plates removed. This compares favourably with previous studies, which report removal rates of 6-10% in trauma patients.…”

“…Some authors recommend removal 1,6,23,30 , while others recommend retention unless clinically indicated 3,5,17,22 . In 1991, the Strasbourg Osteosynthesis Research Group (SORG) produced the following recommendations: 'A plate which is intended to assist the healing of bone becomes a non-functional implant once this role is completed.…”

Resorbable Implants in Maxillofacial Surgery: A Reality Check

“…Some authors recommend routine removal of the implants [20,21]. Others recommend retention unless clinically indicated for removal [22,23].…”

Acute Biocompatibility of X-ray Visible Bioabsorbable Bone Plate Coated with β-Tricalcium Phosphate and Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)

“…Therefore, loosening or dislocation of the plate may cause impaired bone healing or even infection. 5,6 This is why positioning of the plate needs to be monitored after the bone fixation; however, a biodegradable bone plate is not visible on a conventional X-ray imaging as it is made of polymeric materials.…”