Minimal access fixation of mandibular angle fracture

Angle fractures represent the highest percentage of mandibular fractures. Fixation using a single miniplate ventral to oblique line of buccal cortex of the mandible was described by Champy et al. (1976). Ellis has documented low complication rate with monocortical miniplate fixation as a treatment for angle fractures. Most often used approaches are (a) extraoral approach, (b) intraoral approach, and (c) transbuccal approach. Each of these techniques has its pros and cons. We, in this note, propose an approach which sidelines the drawbacks of these approaches and has the combined advantages of these techniques. This technique results in no external scarring or injury to marginal mandibular nerve, and it also allows direct visualization and confirmation of occlusion during plate placement. This approach is through a contaminated area that poses a risk of infection. This approach of ours is based upon this pioneering works of Forrest. The approach proposed by us can aid an experienced maxillofacial surgeon to provide economical outpatient-based care to patients with minimally displaced/undisplaced angle fracture in a routine dental setup. This technique can be breakthrough for introduction of endoscopic approach for treating angle fracture.