Application of Anatomically Designed 2-Dimensional V Plate in Management of Mandible Fracture: A Pilot Study.

Abstract

Mandible is the only mobile facial jaw bone and it aides in various functions such as phonation and mastication. Therefore, management of mandible fracture becomes inevitable due to its functional and anatomical importance. Fracture fixation methods and techniques have steadily evolved with various osteosynthesis systems. In this article, we discuss the management of mandible fracture using a newly designed two-dimensional (2D) hybrid V-shaped plate. In this paper, we have evaluated the efficacy of the newly developed 2D V-shaped locking plate in the management of mandibular fractures. We have assessed 12 cases of different mandibular fractures ranging from symphysis, parasymphysis, angle and subcondylar region. Treatment outcome was assessed both clinically and radiologically at regular intervals with various intraoperative and postoperative parameters. Results of this study suggest that fixation of mandible fracture with the 2D hybrid V-shaped plate facilitates anatomic reduction and functional stability and carries a low morbidity and infection rate. The 2D anatomic hybrid V-shaped plate can be a suitable alternative to conventional miniplate and 3D plates as it offers satisfactory anatomic reduction and functional stability. Positioning the plate in relation to the mental nerve and plate adaptation along the angle region are much easier.