Assessment of plate use for mandibular reconstruction: has changing technology made a difference?

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Surgical Reconstruction

Background:

• Mandibular defects require reconstruction using alloplastic materials.
• Plate-related complications are a concern in mandibular reconstruction.
• Various plating technologies have been developed over time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of different plating technologies on complications in mandibular reconstruction.
• To identify factors influencing plate-related complications, such as plate exposure, fracture, and removal.
• To analyze outcomes over a 22-year period.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of mandibular reconstructions using alloplastic materials over 22 years.
• Comparison of outcomes associated with miniplates, reconstruction plates, titanium hollow screw plates, and locking reconstruction plates.
• Analysis of complication incidence, including plate exposure, fracture, and removal.

Main Results:

• The incidence of plate fractures has decreased with newer plating technologies.
• There was no significant change in the rate of plate exposure across different plating types.
• Recurrent disease was identified as a significant factor contributing to plate-related complications.

Conclusions:

• Advancements in plating technology have reduced plate fractures but not plate exposure rates.
• Recurrent disease is a critical factor to consider in preventing plate-related complications.
• Further research may focus on strategies to mitigate exposure and the impact of recurrent disease.