Conventional 2.0 mm miniplates versus 3-D plates in mandibular fractures

AIM: To compare and evaluate the treatment outcome and postoperative complications in mandibular fractures using 2- and 3-dimensional miniplates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study consisted of a sample of 28 patients (40 fracture sites) divided randomly but equally (single-blind control trial study) into two groups. Each group contains 14 patients (20 similar fracture sites in each group). Group 1 was treated with open reduction and internal fixation using 3-dimensional (3-D) miniplates. Group II was treated using 2-dimensional (2-D) 2-mm miniplates. RESULTS: Out of 14 patients treated by conventional 2-mm miniplates, 2 patients developed occlusal discrepancy, another 2 had postoperative mobility at fracture site, and 1 developed plate failure and subsequent infection, which was treated by removal of the plate under antibiotic coverage. One patient treated by 3-dimensional plates had tooth damage. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Chi-square test. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggested that the treatment of mandibular fractures (symphysis, parasymphysis, and angle) with 3-dimensional plates provided 3-dimensional stability and carried low morbidity and infection rates. The only probable limitations of 3-dimensional plates were excessive implant material due to the extra vertical bars incorporated for countering the torque forces.