Does the Use of Hybrid Arch Bars for the Treatment of Mandibular Fractures Reduce the Length of Surgery?

Abstract

The use of hybrid arch-bar systems that use bone support is a relatively recent development in the management of mandibular fractures with the potential to reduce surgical time. The purpose of this study was to compare the length of surgery between hybrid arch bars and traditional Erich arch bars in the treatment of mandibular fractures. The author implemented a prospective, randomized, nonblinded study of consecutive patients presenting with mandibular fractures to Grady Memorial Hospital. The primary predictor variable was the use of hybrid arch bars versus Erich arch bars. The primary outcome variable was the length of surgery. Secondary outcome variables included time to place the arch bars and fracture healing. Univariate and multivariate statistics were computed with P<.05 being considered significant. Fifty patients were enrolled and completed the study. The mean length of surgery was 108minutes in the hybrid group and 117minutes in the Erich arch-bar group (P=.62). The mean time taken to place the arch bars was 14 and 37minutes in the hybrid and Erich arch-bar groups, respectively (P<.0001). There was no difference in fracture healing between the groups (P=.58). Hybrid arch bars, although reducing the time needed to place the arch bars compared with traditional Erich arch bars, do not appear to result in a reduction in the length of surgery when treating isolated mandibular fractures.