Mandibular Fracture Fixation Using Various Plate Designs: A Finite Element Analysis

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Materials Science
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Mandibular fractures are frequent maxillofacial injuries necessitating stable fixation.
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a valuable tool for assessing stress distribution in bone.
• This study compares the biomechanical performance of four distinct mandibular fracture fixation plate designs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the biomechanical performance of single miniplate, dual miniplates, grid-type plate, and low-profile reconstruction plate designs for mandibular fracture fixation using FEA.
• To analyze stress distribution, maximum stress in bone and plates, and fracture segment displacement for each plate type under simulated biting forces.

Main Methods:

• Generation of 100 mandibular models with standardized angle fractures for FEA.
• Simulation of four plate types (single miniplate, dual miniplates, grid-type plate, low-profile reconstruction plate) made of Ti-6Al-4V alloy.
• Analysis of stress distribution, maximum von Mises stress, and fracture segment displacement under 150 N bite force, followed by statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• The single miniplate showed the highest bone and plate stress, and greatest fracture displacement.
• Dual miniplates and grid-type plates demonstrated reduced bone stress and displacement compared to single miniplates.
• Low-profile reconstruction plates exhibited the lowest bone and plate stress, minimal displacement, and uniform load distribution, indicating superior stability.

Conclusions:

• Plate design critically impacts the biomechanical stability of mandibular fracture fixation.
• Low-profile reconstruction plates offer superior biomechanical performance, including optimal stress distribution and minimal displacement.
• These findings suggest low-profile reconstruction plates enhance fracture stability more effectively than single, dual, or grid-type plates.