Extra-platysma fixation of bisphosphonate-related mandibular fractures: a suggested technical solution

Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) is an evolving epidemic. Often the patients are in poor general condition and therefore the aim of surgical treatment is generally limited to pain control and restoration of feeding ability. We present a useful surgical technique for the stabilization of BRONJ-related mandibular fractures, including application of a reconstructive plate. With an extraoral approach, a 2.5-mm reconstructive locking plate is contoured and placed in the plane of dissection, superficial to the platysma. The fracture site is accessed through an intraoral approach, which limits surgery to curettage and rinsing of the surgical site. Since there is no removal of the periosteal support to the residual stumps, the blood supply to the affected mandible is maintained. Avoidance of direct contact of the infected fractured site with the reconstructive plate is another advantage of working in a surgical plane over the platysma muscle. Although fracture healing is not achieved, plate fixation with this technique is stable and painless and patients can easily eat; therefore, patients enjoy a great improvement in their quality of life. We consider this easy and effective procedure to be a reliable palliative solution in these patients.