Single 2.3 Reconstruction Plate Versus Two Miniplates in the Treatment of Mandibular Fractures (Randomized Clinical Trial)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:The foremost maxillofacial fractures, following nasal fractures, are mandibular fractures. Several studies were carried out to improve the techniques used, shorten immobilization period, and improve fixation. One of these modalities is utilization of rigid fixation with a low-profile reconstructing plate. OBJECTIVES: This research is done to compare clinical in addition to radiological results of a low-profile reconstruction plate with two miniplates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 7 patients within each group complaining of recent anterior mandibular fracture (AMF). Group A received treatment with a low-profile reconstruction plate, while Group B received treatment with two miniplates. Follow-up was performed after 24 hours, and one, four, six, and twelve weeks clinically. In addition, a radiographic examination was carried out immediately postoperative and twelve weeks after to evaluate along fracture line the average bone density. RESULT: All patients reported statistically significant reduction in pain levels throughout the study (p<0.001). All individuals demonstrated improvement in maximum mouth opening during the examination; group A (P=0.002), while group B (p<0.001). Occlusion was normal in both groups. Nonetheless, a single patient of group A showed postoperative wound infection, and there were no wound infections in group B. By comparing postoperative 12 weeks to immediate values, average bone density has risen tremendously. But besides this, group A (p<0.001) had a higher mean bone density than group B (p=0.004). CONCLUSION: A low-profile non-locking reconstruction plate produced slightly better results than two miniplates, and equivalent results to a locking low-profile reconstructing plate.