A comparative study of various fixation methods for mandibular fracture

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Orthognathic Surgery

Background:

• Internal rigid fixation is a reliable method for mandibular fracture osteosynthesis, enabling early function restoration.
• Limited comparative studies exist for various mandibular fracture fixation techniques.
• Plate fixation, lag screw fixation, and combined methods are common surgical interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical outcomes of different internal rigid fixation methods for mandibular fractures.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of plate fixation, lag screw fixation, combined fixation, and wire fixation.
• To assess both short-term and long-term results, including functional recovery and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 101 patients with mandibular fractures treated between 1993 and 1997.
• Inclusion of fixation methods: plate (44), lag screw (30), combined plate and lag screw (15), and wire (12).
• Assessment via hospital records review and a patient questionnaire on occlusion, mastication, and facial aesthetics.

Main Results:

• Wire fixation required more frequent and prolonged intermaxillary fixation compared to plate and/or lag screw groups.
• Plate, lag screw, and combined fixation groups demonstrated superior overall outcomes.
• Significant improvements were noted in long-term dental occlusion and mastication function for rigid fixation groups.

Conclusions:

• More rigid fixation methods, specifically plates and lag screws, yield better short- and long-term results for mandibular fractures.
• Rigid fixation enhances functional recovery, including occlusion and mastication.
• These findings support the use of plates and screws for optimal management of mandible fractures.