Evaluation of Locked Plates Versus 3-Dimensional Plates for Fixation of Mandibular Angle Fractures: A Clinical and Radiologic Study.

INTRODUCTION

Mandibular fractures are among the most prevalent forms of facial trauma, with the angle region being particularly susceptible to them as a result of its anatomic fragility and exposure to masticatory forces. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and postoperative complications of 2.00 mm unicortical fixed plates and 3-dimensional plates in the surgical correction of displaced mandibular angle fractures.

METHODS

This is a prospective, randomized clinical study included 20 patients of both sexes, divided randomly into 2 groups according to the technique of fixation. Group I: patients were treated using a non-compression monocortical 2 mm 3D miniplate and group II: patients were treated using a non-compression monocortical 2 mm locked miniplate.

RESULTS

Postoperative radiography was taken for each patient on the 2nd, 3rd, and 6th months. The status was assessed using a score from 1 to 3. Score I showed poorly reduced fractures that had required a second operation to correct poor alignment and unacceptable occlusion. Score II showed reduced fractures that were slightly displaced but had a satisfactory occlusion. Score III showed radiologic evidence of precise anatomic reduction at the fracture site. All patients had shown radiographic score I preoperatively, whereas all patients at 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months had shown radiographic score 3, revealing properly reduced fracture bony segments and a properly aligned inferior border without step deformity at different appointments.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the 3D miniplate and secured plate systems were used to successfully stabilize the fracture fragments after the mandibular angle fractures fixation.