Maxillofacial fixation with absorbable miniplates: computed tomographic follow-up

Rigid internal fixation has become a mainstay of treatment for maxillofacial trauma. Refinement in materials and manufacturing have led to unobtrusive titanium miniplates and microplates. However, concerns remain regarding the presence of plates and screws after fracture healing has occurred. Absorbable rigid fixation systems ideally would provide sufficient strength and fixation to allow osseous healing and then be absorbed without sequelae. Plates and screws made from polylactic acid-polyglycolic acid copolymer approach this ideal. Four maxillofacial trauma patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation using absorbable plates and screws. Direct coronal computed tomographic (CT) scans were obtained before and after repair of the fractures. CT scan 6 months after repair shows adequate reduction of fractures and osseous healing. Clinical follow-up shows no significant sequelae.