The role of 3D plating system in mandibular fractures: A prospective study

• Published in: Journal of pharmacy & bioallied science 2013-06, Vol.5 (5), p.10-13
• Main Authors: Prasad, Rajendra, Thangavelu, Kavin, John, Reena
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 3D plates; Dental Science - Original; Fracture fixation; Health aspects; lingual splay; Mandible; mandible fractures; Methods; miniplates; Oral surgery; Physiological aspects
• ISSN: 0975-7406; 0976-4879; 0975-7406; 0976-4879
• DOI: 10.4103/0975-7406.113280

Aim: The aim of our study was to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of 3D plating system in the treatment of mandibular fractures. Patients and Methods: 20 mandibular fractures in 18 patients at various anatomic locations and were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using 3D plates. All patients were followed at regular intervals of 4 th , 8 th and 12 th weeks respectively. Patients were assessed post-operatively for lingual splay and occlusal stability. The incidence of neurosensory deficit, infection, masticatory difficulty, non-union, malunion was also assessed. Results: A significant reduction in lingual splay (72.2%) and occlusal stability (72.2%) was seen. The overall complication rate was (16.6%) which included two patients who developed post-operative paresthesia of lip, three patients had infection and two cases of masticatory difficulty which later subsided by higher antibiotics and 4 weeks of MMF. No evidence of non-union, malunion was noted. Conclusion: A single 3D 2 mm miniplate with 2 mm × 8 mm screws is a reliable and an effective treatment modality for mandibular fracture.