Comparison between three methods for internal bone fixations in displaced mandibular angle fractures

Abstract

Objective 

The objective of this study was to compare between one miniplate, double miniplates and dynamic compression bone plate in fixation of displaced mandibular angle fractures.

Patients and methods 

Twenty-one adult patients with displaced mandibular angle fracture were included in this study. The patients were divided randomly into three equal groups: group I was treated by superior miniplate, group II was treated by two miniplates fixation technique and group III was treated by inferior dynamic compression bone plate. Postoperative clinical, radiographic evaluation and quantitative measurements were performed to assess bone density at the fracture site.

Results 

Wound healing was optimal in all cases, except that two cases in group I and one case in group II complained of wound dehiscence. Satisfactory occlusion was obtained in all cases, except two cases in group I where it had mild to moderate occlusal derangement. Other parameters including maximal mouth opening, sensory nerve function and patient’s tolerance to the plate were comparable. There was similarity between the density changes for the three groups, as there was a highly significant difference (P<0.01) in group I compared with group II at 6 months, group I compared with group III at 3 and 6 months and between group II compared with group III at 6 months.

Conclusion 

Both double miniplates and dynamic compression bone plate provided enough stability for proper bone healing, establishment of optimal occlusion, and early return to normal function more than with single miniplate. Moreover, dynamic compression bone plate is superior to double miniplates in these parameters.