Three-dimensional customized titanium plate versus conventional titanium miniplate for management of mandibular angle fractures

Background Surgical treatment of mandibular angle fractures using an internal fixation has changed in the last decades to achieve the required rigidity, stability, and immediate restoration of function. Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate both clinically and radiologically the efficacy of three-dimensional customized titanium plate versus conventional titanium miniplate in the management of mandibular angle fractures. Patients and methods Sixteen adult patients with unilateral mandibular angle fracture indicated for reduction and internal fixation were selected from the Outpatient Clinic, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Tanta University. Patients were divided into two equal groups according to the type of plating system used in fracture fixation, for group I mandibular angle fractures were fixed with 3-D customized titanium plate while for group II mandibular angle fractures were fixed with single conventional titanium miniplate. Postoperative clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed immediately, one week, two weeks, one month, three months and six months. The postoperative clinical evaluation included presence or absence of infection, position and stability of the mandibular lower border, state of occlusion, maximal mouth opening, sensory nerve function, condition of teeth related to the fracture line and patient’s tolerance to the plate. The postoperative radiographic examinations evaluated the accuracy of reduction and bony union by measuring the inter-fragmentary gap and the intergonial distance. Results Uneventful wound healing was obtained in all cases of both groups except case no 4 of group II in which dehiscence and mild infection was happened. Satisfactory occlusion was obtained in all cases of both groups except case no 7 of group II where it had mild occlusal derangement. Other parameters including clinical stability, maximal mouth opening, sensory nerve function, and plate tolerance were comparable in both groups. There were no significant differences between group I and group II regarding inter-fragmentary gap and intergonial distance regarding postoperative radiographs. Conclusion The use of three-dimensional customized titanium plate and conventional titanium miniplate fixation systems provided enough stability for proper bone healing, establishment of optimal occlusion, and early return to normal function.