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Lag-screw fixation of anterior mandibular fractures using biodegradable polylactide screws: a preliminary report
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of biodegradable, self-reinforced poly-L-lactide screws (SR-PLLA) for lag-screw fixation of anterior mandibular fractures.
Patients And Methods:
SR-PLLA lag-screws were used to stabilize anterior mandibular fractures in 11 patients. Maxillomandibular fixation was used to treat concomitant mandibular condyle fractures for 2 weeks in four patients and for 1 and 5 weeks in two patients. Clinical and radiologic follow-up lasted for 6 months in 36% of patients and for 1 year in 64%.
Results:
Healing of all anterior fractures was uneventful, with no displacement or delay of bony union. No adverse reactions to the biodegradable screws were seen during follow-up.
Conclusion:
Biodegradable SR-PLLA screw fixation seems to be a new and promising way of treating anterior mandibular fractures.