Comparative In vitro Analysis of Resorbable vs Titanium Miniplates in Simulated Mandibular Fracture Models

The management of mandibular fractures traditionally involves the use of titanium miniplates for internal fixation. However, resorbable plating systems offer potential advantages, such as eliminating the need for second-stage removal surgery and reducing long-term complications. To compare the mechanical stability and fracture resistance of resorbable versus titanium miniplates in simulated mandibular fracture models under standardized in vitro conditions.

Forty synthetic polyurethane mandibles with standardized angle fractures were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 20 each): Group A (titanium miniplates, 2.0 mm system) and Group B (resorbable polylactic acid miniplates, 2.0 mm system). Fixation was performed using a standard two-hole miniplate on the superior border with monocortical screws. Biomechanical testing was performed using a universal testing machine to measure maximum load to failure and displacement at failure. Statistical analysis was conducted using independent t-tests (P < 0.05).

Group A showed significantly higher load to failure (295.7 ± 18.2 N) compared to Group B (187.6 ± 20.5 N) (P < 0.001). Displacement at failure was lower in Group A (1.62 ± 0.14 mm) than in Group B (2.38 ± 0.22 mm), also statistically significant (P < 0.001). All titanium constructs maintained integrity during testing, whereas 15% of the resorbable constructs exhibited screw loosening.

Titanium miniplates provide superior mechanical stability and resistance to functional loading in simulated mandibular fractures compared to resorbable systems. While resorbable plates offer clinical advantages in pediatric or selected cases, caution is warranted in load-bearing areas.