Evaluation of Three Different Osteosynthesis Methods for Mandibular Angle Fractures: Vertical Load Test

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomechanical Engineering
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Mandible angle fractures are common facial injuries requiring stable fixation.
• Rigid fixation methods are crucial for restoring function and aesthetics.
• Understanding the biomechanical behavior of different fixation plates is essential for optimal treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the mechanical performance of three distinct rigid fixation plates used for mandible angle fractures.
• To determine the most effective plate configuration for resisting vertical loading in simulated fractures.

Main Methods:

• Three types of miniplates were tested: 4-hole grid, 8-hole curved grid, and 4-hole straight.
• Thirty polyurethane hemimandibles with simulated simple angle fractures were used.
• Mechanical testing involved applying vertical loads to assess plate stability at specific displacement moments.

Main Results:

• The 4-hole straight miniplate, positioned in the tension zone, demonstrated superior mechanical stability under vertical loading.
• No significant difference in mechanical performance was observed between the 4-hole and 8-hole grid plates.
• Grid plates, positioned in the neutral zone, showed less favorable results compared to the straight plate.

Conclusions:

• The straight miniplate is biomechanically superior for rigid fixation of mandible angle fractures.
• Plate positioning (tension zone vs. neutral zone) significantly impacts mechanical support.
• Findings suggest the straight plate is a more effective option for treating mandible angle fractures.