Bone plate fixation of mandibular fractures

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Bone plate fixation was historically used for jaw fractures.
• Its application was primarily in complex cases like dislocated or infected mandibular fractures, often in edentulous patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the application and outcomes of bone plate fixation for jaw fractures.
• To determine the indications and limitations of this technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 11 patients treated with bone plate fixation for jaw fractures between 1970 and 1978.
• Analysis of fracture type, patient dentition status, and complication incidence.

Main Results:

• Bone plate fixation was used in only 11 out of 1400 jaw fracture patients.
• The technique was predominantly applied to edentulous patients with dislocated or infected mandibular fractures and nonunion.
• A high complication rate was observed, influenced by fracture complexity and mandibular resorption.

Conclusions:

• Bone plate fixation has a limited role in managing jaw fractures.
• It is primarily indicated for specific complex cases, particularly in edentulous patients with mandibular fractures.
• Routine use in uncomplicated mandibular fractures in dentulous patients is not recommended due to limited application and potential complications.