Effectiveness of Single Miniplate Fixation for Mandibular Symphysis and Parasymphysis Fractures: A Clinical Study

Introduction Symphysis and parasymphysis fractures are common in maxillofacial trauma, requiring precise management to restore form, function, and aesthetics. While Champy's technique recommends two miniplates - superior and inferior - for optimal stability, placing a superior plate in the canine-premolar region risks damaging dental roots and neurovascular structures. Additionally, the cost of dual plating may be a burden in low-resource settings. This study evaluates the efficacy of a single miniplate at the inferior border, aided by an arch bar as a tension band, for managing these fractures. Methods This prospective clinical study included 15 patients presenting with isolated mandibular symphysis or parasymphysis fractures. All fractures were managed using a single 2.5 mm miniplate along the inferior mandibular border, with an arch bar serving as a tension band across the dental arch. Patients were evaluated postoperatively for the incidence of surgical site infection, wound dehiscence, malunion or nonunion, malocclusion, miniplate fracture, and neurosensory deficits. Cost implications related to avoiding the use of a second miniplate were also analyzed. Follow-up was conducted for a minimum of four weeks postoperatively. Results The study observed that single miniplate fixation in combination with an arch bar provided satisfactory clinical outcomes in most cases. There were no significant incidences of postoperative infection, plate fracture, or malocclusion. Neurosensory complications were minimal and comparable to standard dual-plate protocols. Importantly, the reduction in hardware usage translated to lower overall treatment costs, offering a substantial benefit for patients from economically constrained backgrounds. Conclusion Single miniplate fixation along the inferior border of the mandible, when augmented with a tension band in the form of an arch bar, appears to be a reliable and cost-effective alternative for the management of symphysis and parasymphysis fractures. This technique minimizes iatrogenic risk to adjacent anatomical structures and offers a financially feasible solution, particularly in low-resource settings. Larger randomized controlled studies are recommended to further validate these findings and support broader adoption of this simplified approach in clinical practice.