Management of Mandibular Angle Fractures: Single Stainless Steel Linear Miniplate Versus Rectangular Grid Plate-A...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Mandibular angle fractures are common facial injuries.
• Effective fixation is crucial for restoring function and aesthetics.
• Conventional miniplates are widely used, but alternatives are being explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of single linear miniplates versus rectangular grid plates for treating mandibular angle fractures.
• To evaluate fracture stability, occlusion, mouth opening, and complication rates.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 30 patients with mandibular angle fractures.
• Patients were randomly assigned to receive either a linear miniplate or a rectangular grid plate.
• Outcomes were assessed at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding fracture stability, occlusion, or mouth opening.
• Mild occlusal derangements and limited mouth opening occurred in a small percentage of patients in both groups, resolving by 3 months.
• No instances of plate fracture, screw loosening, non-union, or mal-union were reported in either group.

Conclusions:

• Rectangular grid plates are a reliable and effective alternative to conventional miniplates for mandibular angle fracture fixation.
• This fixation method demonstrates low complication rates and ease of adaptation.
• Larger sample size studies are recommended for more comprehensive conclusions.