A Prospective Clinical Study on Transgingival Lag Screws for Management of Dentoalveolar Fractures

Dentoalveolar fracture (DAF) is a common injury which comprises of alveolar fractures which include 2-8% of facial fractures. Traditional methods of management of these fractures may not be feasible all the time. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of transgingival lag screws (TGLS) in management of dentoalveolar fractures. 20 patients with dentoalveolar fractures, either isolated or concomitant with other facial fractures were included in the study. All patients were treated using transgingival lagscrews under local or general anaesthesia and were evaluated for stability, reduction, bone loss, periodontal health and functional rehabilitation with a follow up period of 3 months. All the subjects healed without any complications. The screws were retrieved by the end of 3<sup>rd</sup> month. A descriptive statistical analysis was done for the assessed parameters. Good fracture stability was noted in 90% of the cases in immediate post operative period. Anatomical reduction assessed radiographically was ideal. Sound periodontal health was maintained effortlessly, inversely reflecting on minimal bone loss. Rehabilitative period was minimal with preinjury average bite force establishment by the end of 3 months. The study concluded that TGLS is an effective alternative to achieve reduction and stabilization in management of dentoalveolar fractures without jeopardizing the blood supply.