Transoral Miniplate Fixation of Mandibular Angle Fracture with and without 2 Weeks of Maxillomandibular Fixation: A Clinical Trial Study

Background and Objectives The ideal line of osteosynthesis in mandibular angle fractures indicates that a plate might be placed either along or just below the external oblique ridge. Some authors believe that using one miniplate at this line at the mandibular angle region provides sufficient strength to stabilize the fracture but others imply a second plate is required. Such controversies exist in the use of maxillomandibular fixation (MMF). The intention of the present study was to compare efficiency and complications of using one miniplate with and without MMF in mandibular angle fractures. Methods and Materials Forty patients with facial trauma with mandibular angle fractures including displaced and unfavorable fractures were categorized into two groups of 20 persons. In all patients, one miniplate was placed on the external oblique ridge. In the first group, patients had light maxillomandibular elastic bands just after surgery but no rigid MMF. In the second group, patients had rigid MMF for 2 weeks after surgery. Patients were followed to evaluate complications and treatment efficiency. Conclusions Our study showed that use of a single miniplate in the external oblique ridge is a functionally stable treatment for all types of angle fractures (including displaced and unfavorable fractures) except comminuted and long oblique fractures, which were not included in our study. Use of postoperative MMF did not improve the results.

Use of 3-D Plate in Displaced Angle Fracture of Mandible

Introduction Mandibular angle fractures can be treated by various methods, but even the most popular methods may not be able to give satisfactory results, as the pterygomasseteric sling and masticatory forces can result in displaced angle fracture. These displaced fragments cannot be satisfactorily retained by single miniplate fixation. The aim of this study is to assess treatment of displaced angle fracture with 3-D miniplate fixation. This study can also be considered as a therapeutic study with level V evidence. Materials and Methods This study was designed to assess the feasibility of 3-D matrix miniplate fixation in displaced angle fractures. Eighteen patients with displaced angle fractures were included in this study. Matrix miniplate fixation was done transorally under general anesthesia. Results All these cases were treated successfully, and common complications like infection (5.5% of patients), wound dehiscence (11%), paresthesia (16.7%), and malocclusion (11%) were observed in our study. Conclusions Three-dimensional miniplate fixation in displaced angle fractures provides better stability and function.

Use of Miniplates in Parasymphysis Fractures: A Survey Conducted among Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India

ABSTRACT Aim: Aim of the study was to find out the number of miniplates used by Indian oral and maxillofacial surgeons for parasymphysis fractures. Study design A survey was done among oral and maxillofacial surgeons of India at the 34th annual meeting of Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India. Four questions were given to each individual to find out their opinion regarding use of miniplates in parasymphysis fractures. Results Eighty-eight percent of Indian surgeons were in favor of using intraoperative or postoperative intermaxillary fixation. Thirty-eight percent responded in favor of using single miniplate for parasymphysis fracture instead of using two miniplates. 54% maxillofacial surgeons use various modifications depending on different conditions. 42% of maxillofacial surgeons accepted that lower arch bar can be used as a tension band. Conclusion Use of miniplates for the treatment of parasymphysis fracture varies from center to center and from surgeon to surgeon. Though miniplates are best used following Champy's principle, still many surgeons use single miniplate. Arch bars placed for intermaxillary fixation can be used as a tension band, again eliminating the need for upper plate. How to cite this article Saluja H, Dehane V, Kini Y, Mahindra U. Use of Miniplates in Parasymphysis Fractures: A Survey Conducted among Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India. Int J Head and Neck Surg 2012;3(1):8-10.