Comparison of different plating systems in bilateral para symphysis fractures

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of the present research was to evaluate the comparison of various plating systems used in treatment of bilateral para-symphysis fracture. Methodology: Fractures were generated in 3-dimensional finite element models, and were fixed with a single miniplate, parallel double miniplates, or perpendicular double miniplates. A 300 N perpendicular load was then applied on the left molar region, and a finite element analysis was performed. Vertical gaps between the fractured surfaces of bilateral para-symphyseal areas, maximum stress within the screw/plating system, and maximum stress around screw holes in the bone. Results: Compared to the single miniplate, both the parallel and perpendicular double miniplates demonstrated significantly less stress in the screw/plating system and screw holes in the bone. In addition, the perpendicular double miniplates had significantly smaller vertical gaps between fracture surfaces when compared to the single miniplate. Comparing parallel and perpendicular double miniplate fixations, less stress was found around the screw holes of the perpendicular miniplate models than those of the parallel miniplate models. There were no differences in vertical gaps or maximum stress within the screw/plating systems between the 2 double miniplate fixations.