Single Versus Two Plate Osteosynthesis for Parasymphysis Fractures of the Mandible: A Prospective Comparative Study

Background The treatment of mandibular fractures has undergone a revolutionary change after the invention of miniplate osteosynthesis. There aren't many studies in the literature comparing the outcomes of treating mandibular parasymphysis fractures with two miniplates versus one miniplate.  Aim To evaluate the outcomes of single vs. two plate osteosynthesis in the management of parasymphysis fractures of the mandible. Materials and methods Sixteen patients with parasymphysis fracture of the mandible treated with a single high-profile miniplate or with two miniplates were included in the study. Multiple outcome variables such as fracture union, wound infection, dehiscence, iatrogenic dental injury, intraoperative time, plate exposure, and need for plate removal were recorded and analyzed statistically using the Student's t-test. Results The occurrence of iatrogenic dental injury (P= 0.021) and the mean operating time showed a statistically significant difference between the groups, whereas variables such as osseous healing, plate exposure, wound dehiscence, and postoperative paresthesia had no significant difference (P > 0.05). Conclusion Despite both systems providing enough stability for osseous healing, the use of a single high-profile miniplate demonstrated fewer post-operative problems, such as iatrogenic injury to the dental roots and occurrence of infection/dehiscence and plate exposure, than the use of two miniplates.