Treatment of Comminuted Mandibular Angle Fractures Using Champy Technique

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• The Champy technique, using intraoral single miniplate fixation on the superior border, is standard for isolated mandibular angle fractures.
• Its application in comminuted mandibular angle fractures remains under-explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the Champy technique for treating comminuted mandibular angle fractures.
• To compare outcomes in cases with and without alveolar bone defects.

Main Methods:

• The study assessed patients with comminuted mandibular angle fractures treated with the Champy technique.
• Fixation was performed via an intraoral approach, with dislocated teeth removed.
• Iodoform gauze was used for patients with alveolar bone defects and incomplete soft tissue closure.

Main Results:

• A patient without alveolar bone defects achieved primary wound healing and good occlusion.
• A patient with alveolar bone defects and incomplete soft tissue closure developed an intraoral fistula and bone resorption.
• Both patients demonstrated stable occlusion and completed callus healing by 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusions:

• The Champy technique is a feasible intraoral fixation method for comminuted mandibular angle fractures.
• Incomplete soft tissue closure compromises healing by exposing the bone marrow cavity, potentially delaying fracture union.