Comparison of Trapezoidal-Shaped 3D Plates and Conventional Miniplates for the Stabilization of Subcondylar Fractures

Objectives This study aimed to compare trapezoidal-shaped 3D plates and conventional miniplates for the stabilization of subcondylar fractures. The primary outcome measure was postoperative occlusal outcome; secondary outcome measures included operative time, functional recovery (maximum mouth opening and lateral mandibular movement), and postoperative complications. Materials and methods A prospective study was conducted on 20 patients diagnosed with subcondylar fractures in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Ziauddin Ahmad Dental College and Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, India. All patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) via the retromandibular approach. The patients were divided into two groups: one group was treated with trapezoidal-shaped 3D plates, while the other received conventional miniplates. The time taken for plate fixation, postoperative occlusion, functional outcomes (maximum mouth opening and lateral mandibular movements), and complications were assessed and compared between the groups. Results Both groups achieved satisfactory anatomical reduction confirmed by postoperative orthopantomogram and Townes view radiographs. The trapezoidal 3D plate group demonstrated significantly superior postoperative occlusal outcomes at all follow-up time points. By the fourth week, 100% of Group I patients achieved satisfactory occlusion versus 50% in Group II. Mouth opening and lateral mandibular movements were comparable between groups at three months. The mean operative time was significantly shorter in Group I (21.80 min vs. 40.20 min; p < 0.0001). Complication rates were minimal and comparable between groups. Conclusion Trapezoidal-shaped 3D plates demonstrated superior postoperative occlusal stability and reduced operative time compared to conventional double miniplates in the management of mandibular subcondylar fractures, while providing comparable functional and radiographic outcomes. Larger studies with longer follow-up are warranted to validate these findings.