EVALUATION OF TWIN FORK MINIPLATE FOR THE FIXATION OF MANDIBULAR FRACTURES AT THE MENTAL FORAMEN REGION

ABSTRACT Background: Mandibular fractures involving the mental foramen region pose fixation challenges because of the proximity of the mental nerve and the need to restore occlusion and stability. Aim: To evaluate the twin-fork miniplate for fractures in this region by assessing fracture stability, neurosensory function, and occlusal bite force. Materials and methods: This prospective study included 15 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation using a 2.0-mm titanium twin-fork miniplate. Fracture displacement was assessed by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) at the labial cortex, lingual cortex, and inferior border. Neurosensory function was evaluated clinically, and bite force was measured at the inter-incisal and bilateral molar regions using a gnathodynamometer. Assessments were performed preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at one and three months. Results: Changes in fracture stability were significant at the labial (χ² = 44.718, p < 0.001), lingual (χ² = 44.096, p < 0.001), and inferior cortices (χ² = 35.625, p < 0.001), with minimal or absent displacement at three months. Bite force increased from 6.84 to 8.83 kg at the incisor region, 8.26 to 10.80 kg at the right molar, and 8.966 to 10.833 kg at the left molar between preoperative and three-month assessments. At three months, 73.3% of patients had normal sensation (Level A). No infection, plate fracture, wound dehiscence, malunion, non-union, or hardware failure was observed. Conclusion: Twin-fork plate fixation was associated with progressive radiographic stability, functional recovery, and neurosensory improvement. Larger comparative studies with longer follow-up are needed. Keywords: Mandibular fractures; mental foramen; twin-fork miniplate; fracture stability; bite force; neurosensory disturbances.