Biomechanical evaluation of three dimensional titanium miniplates in mandibular fracture fixation

The unique position of mandible on the face makes it one of the most commonly fractured facial bones and considered the most common fractures treated by oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
There are a number of methods used till date for the treatment of mandibular fractures. Traditionally, the treatment modalities have ranged from conservative measures such as maxillomandibular fixation by means of wiring, splints or arch bar fixation to open reduction with fixation. Most authorities today, advise open reduction and fixation by plates and screws which is necessary for most of the mandibular fractures.
This study was conducted to evaluate an in vitro biomechanical properties of 3 dimentional plates used for treatment of mandibular fracture treatmen t(fixation). For this purpose a 20 sheep mandible was used to make the biomechanical tests (compression-tensile –torsional) on the universal testing machine.
In the present study, the results of the mean yield compression and tension stresses revealed that the used fixation system proofed to be highly efficient for supporting the fracture In during the period of osteosynthesis, as their point of deformation under load is far away from the reported maximum forces suitable for normal osteosynthesis processes .
Three dimensional miniplates are easy to adjust, requires minimal tissue dissection thus least disturbance to the tissues. Its low profile design and space between plate holes permits excellent revascularization. Comparing the three dimensional plating system with conventional systems, only fewer plates and screws are needed to stabilize the bone fragments.