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The Use of Microplates for Internal Fixation of Comminuted Mandibular Fractures
Tae Joon Choi, Young Hun Chung1, Jae Young Cho2
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Kyung Hee University Medical Center.
Background:
Although clinical trials have successfully applied microplates for the internal fixation of single or double isolated mandibular fractures, the use of microplate systems in comminuted mandibular fractures is not widely accepted. This study aimed to evaluate the use of microplates for internal fixation of comminuted mandible fractures and to discuss their applicability.
Methods:
Fourteen patients with comminuted mandibular fractures (10 at a single region, 3 at 2 regions, and 1 at 4 regions) were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using 0.5- or 0.6-mm-thick titanium microplates and 1.0-, 1.2-, or 1.3-mm monocortical microscrews. Three-level fixation at the lower border, upper border (as interdental wiring), and middle of the mandible was performed. Maxillomandibular fixation was applied only when premature occlusal contact was observed after fracture fixation.
Results:
During the follow-up period (3-55 months), all fractures showed favorable and complete bone healing. Six patients experienced minor complications, including minimal malocclusion (n = 5) and a localized infection (n = 1). Most of these complications were managed with conservative treatment. No major complications that required further orthodontic treatment or reoperation occurred.
Conclusions:
These results suggest that 3-level fixation using microplates is appropriate for the reconstruction of comminuted mandibular fractures without bony defects. The small size and malleability of these devices facilitate accurate anatomical reduction for complete contact of the comminuted bony segments by multiple fixation. Furthermore, microplates allow for preservation of sufficient periosteal blood supply and restoration of premorbid occlusion (by occlusal self-adjustment) while providing sufficient stability.
Insights
Microplates offer a viable solution for internal fixation of comminuted mandibular fractures, achieving complete bone healing with minimal complications. This method provides stability and aids in restoring occlusion for effective fracture reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Microplates are established for simple mandibular fractures but less accepted for comminuted types.
- Comminuted mandibular fractures present unique challenges in achieving stable internal fixation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and applicability of microplate systems for internal fixation of comminuted mandibular fractures.
- To assess the outcomes and complication rates associated with microplate use in complex fracture patterns.
Main Methods:
- Open reduction and internal fixation using titanium microplates (0.5- or 0.6-mm) and monocortical microscrews (1.0- to 1.3-mm).
- Three-level fixation strategy applied to the lower border, upper border (with interdental wiring), and middle of the mandible.
- Maxillomandibular fixation used selectively for premature occlusal contact post-fixation.
Main Results:
- All 14 patients achieved favorable and complete bone healing over a 3-55 month follow-up period.
- Minor complications included malocclusion (n=5) and localized infection (n=1), managed conservatively.
- No major complications requiring reoperation or further orthodontic intervention were reported.
Conclusions:
- Three-level microplate fixation is suitable for reconstructing comminuted mandibular fractures without significant bone defects.
- Microplates facilitate precise anatomical reduction and stable fixation due to their size and malleability.
- This technique preserves periosteal blood supply, aids occlusion restoration, and provides adequate stability.
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