Single linear miniplate versus rectangular grid plate in the treatment of mandibular angle fractures: A prospective, clinico-radiographic, comparative study

STUDY DESIGN: Randomized Control Trial. OBJECTIVE: A prospective, clinico-radiographic, comparative study was planned to evaluate the treatment outcome and postoperative complications in isolated mandibular angle fractures using 2.0-mm system single linear 4 hole with gap miniplate versus 4 hole rectangular grid plate, both stabilized with 4 8-mm monocortical screws. METHODS: Thirty patients with isolated mandibular angle fractures were randomly categorized into two groups with 15 patients each. Group 1 patients were treated with single 2.0 mm × 4 hole linear miniplate along the superior border and Group 2 patients were treated with a 2.0 mm × 4 hole rectangular grid plate on lateral cortex of mandible. Pain, swelling, occlusion, bite force, maximum inter-incisal opening, intraoperative time, facial nerve injury, fracture stability, and postoperative complications were assessed and compared at regular intervals up to 12 months. RESULTS: There was no major difference in terms of treatment outcome in both systems and both were equally effective without any statistically significant difference in any of the parameters. None of the patients presented with any of the complications except for postoperative infection which was reported by 1 patient from each group at 3 months postoperatively and were managed conservatively. CONCLUSION: Both plating systems are equally effective; however, the rectangular grid plate could be a safe and effective alternative to the single miniplate when adaptation and fixation is not possible along the external oblique ridge of the mandible (e.g., fracture with bone loss along the superior border).