Stabilization of anterior mandibular fracture using different osteosynthesis devices: perioperative clinical notes

Purpose: There is still no definitive consensus about the ideal technique in the treatment of anterior mandibular fractures. Therefore, this study aimed to determine clinical and radiographic outcomes of four different internal fixation devices used for this type of fractures.

Methods: This was a cohort study that included 64 fracture cases. Fractures were fixed using four types of open reduction internal fixation devices: single 2.0-mm mini-locking plates, double 2.0-mm miniplates, double lag screw and double microplates. Investigated variables were surgical duration, wound dehiscence, infection, occlusion, mouth opening, patient compliance, nerve damage and postoperative oedema.

Results: Male patients constituted 90.6% of the study sample. A proportion of 33% of the fractures were single symphysis and 67% were parasymphysis fractures. The most time-saving technique was the lag screw followed by microplate with mean/SD of 50.65 ± 4.152 min. Wound dehiscence occurred in 4.7% and 3.1% of the miniplate and the mini-locking groups respectively. Miniplate and microplate groups had small interfragmentary space at 1-month postoperative radiographs, while mini-locking and lag screw groups had no extra-callus formation.

Conclusion: The double lag screw and the single mini-locking plate are the most effective devices for primary bone healing of displaced mandibular symphysis/parasymphysis fractures which is attributed to their enhanced stability. Miniplates and microplates gave functionally well-balanced fixation and were also associated with higher patient convenience due to improved adaptability and relatively lower cost than locking plates. Cost-effectiveness of lag screws in comparison to bone plates is particularly beneficial in low-income countries.