Mandibular Angle Fractures Fixation by Champy Technique Comparing Lateral Plate Fixation

Background and aims: A break through the mandibular bone is referred to as a mandibular fracture or jaw fracture. The split happens in two locations in roughly 60% of cases. It could lead to a reduced capacity for mouth opening. The teeth will frequently feel out of alignment, and the gums may bleed. This study aimed to compare the effects of two treatment approaches for mandibular angle fractures including the Champy plate against lateral plate techniques. Materials & methods: Between January 1, 2023 and the end of December 2023, patients with mandibular angle fractures were found in two equal groups at the Military Hospital in Sana'a, Yemen, where the research was conducted by the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Twenty patients in group A received treatment with Champey plate, and another twenty patients in group B received treatment with lateral plate technique. The patients were treated and followed up at the second and eighth weeks and after six months; after surgery, the incidence of both groups of postoperative infection, malocclusion, nonunion or malunion of fracture fragments, scars, numbness of the lips, wound dehiscence and swelling were assessed by radiological and clinical evaluation. Results: The study reveals that the majority of patients with mandibular angle fractures in Sana'a, Yemen, are aged 20-29, with road transport accidents being the most common cause. Most fractures are unilateral or displaced, with 65% involving 65% maxillomandibular fixation and 52% using an oral approach. Despite some complications, wound dehiscence and infection rates were not reported at six months. During the two-week follow-up period, 90% of patients using the Champy plate experienced swelling, malocclusion, and lip paraesthesia, compared to 100% using lateral plate techniques, and no cases occurred in the lateral plate group. The study found that 5% of patients using the Champy plate developed non-union during the eight-week follow-up period, while 95% of patients in the lateral plate group had a scar at six months' follow-up. Conclusion: The study found that males are 100% more likely to have mandibular fractures, with the majority occurring in those aged 20-29 (67.5%). Road traffic accidents and bomb blasts were the most common causes. The Champy plate was found to be the most reliable and efficient management method for treating mandibular angle fractures. Keywords: Champy plate technique, lateral plate technique, mandibular angle fractures, Yemen.