Evaluation of Locked Plates Versus 3-Dimensional Plates for Fixation of Mandibular Angle Fractures: A Clinical and Radiologic Study

INTRODUCTION: Mandibular fractures are among the most prevalent forms of facial trauma, with the angle region being particularly susceptible to them as a result of its anatomic fragility and exposure to masticatory forces. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and postoperative complications of 2.00 mm unicortical fixed plates and 3-dimensional plates in the surgical correction of displaced mandibular angle fractures. METHODS: This is a prospective, randomized clinical study included 20 patients of both sexes, divided randomly into 2 groups according to the technique of fixation. Group I: patients were treated using a non-compression monocortical 2 mm 3D miniplate and group II: patients were treated using a non-compression monocortical 2 mm locked miniplate. RESULTS: Postoperative radiography was taken for each patient on the 2nd, 3rd, and 6th months. The status was assessed using a score from 1 to 3. Score I showed poorly reduced fractures that had required a second operation to correct poor alignment and unacceptable occlusion. Score II showed reduced fractures that were slightly displaced but had a satisfactory occlusion. Score III showed radiologic evidence of precise anatomic reduction at the fracture site. All patients had shown radiographic score I preoperatively, whereas all patients at 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months had shown radiographic score 3, revealing properly reduced fracture bony segments and a properly aligned inferior border without step deformity at different appointments. CONCLUSIONS: Both the 3D miniplate and secured plate systems were used to successfully stabilize the fracture fragments after the mandibular angle fractures fixation.