Biomechanical analysis of titanium fixation plates and screws in mandibular angle fractures.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the mechanical behavior of different rigid fixation methods in mandibular angle fractures.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Three different three-dimensional finite element models of the mandible were developed to simulate the biomechanical responses of titanium plates and screws. The fracture lines were fixed with double 4-hole straight, 4-hole square, and 5-hole Y plates with monocortical screws. 150 N incisal occlusal loads were simulated on the models. The commercial ANSYS software was utilized to calculate the Von Mises stresses on fixative appliances.

RESULTS

The highest Von Mises stress values were observed in the Y plate, whereas the lowest stress values have been found in the square plate.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of square plate led to better stability and lower mechanical stresses than other techniques.