Comparative Evaluation of Masticatory Efficiency of 3D Trapezoidal Plates Versus 3D Delta Plates After ORIF of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures

Mandibular condyle fractures contribute to ∼10% to 40% of maxillofacial trauma cases. Efficacy of fixation systems comparing 3D plates with conventional miniplates based on measurement of bite forces through gnathodynamometer was done in the past; however, no studies exist comparing efficacy of 3D trapezoidal plates versus 3D delta plates through bite forces evaluation. Hence, this comparative analytical prospective study was designed for cases of unilateral subcondylar fractures with associated contralateral symphysis or parasymphysis fractures of mandible in patients belonging to the age group of 18 to 60 years. Preoperative measurement of bite force using gnathodynamometer (measured in kg) was recorded in canine and first molar region of both sides of jaw. Postoperatively, each subject was assessed for bite force at interval of T0 (1 week), T1 (2 weeks), T3 (6 weeks), and T4 (1 year). On follow-ups, biting force measured in all 4 regions showed highly significant statistical difference ( P <0.01) at end of 1 year. In our clinical experience, preoperative and 1-week postoperative follow-up bite force was higher in Delta group of subjects; however, 6-months and 1-year follow-up revealed better performance of Trapezoidal plates, hence showing superior performance of Trapezoidal plates in terms of masticatory efficiency.