Evaluating the effectiveness of Hybrid arch bar with Erich arch bar during maxillomandibular fixation

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of Hybrid arch bar and Erich arch bar during Maxillomandibular Fixation. Materials And Methods: We designed a parallel-group, randomized controlled trial to compare the 2 types of arch bars. A total of 20 patients with mandibular parasymphysis fractures within the age group of 25 - 30 years presenting to our institution were enrolled in the study and randomized into 1 of 2 groups: the hybrid arch bar group and the Erich arch bar group. The primary outcome variable was arch bar placement time. The secondary outcomes were glove tears during application and removal , patient comfort and the removal time of the device. The groups were compared using t tests. Results: A total of 20 patients participated in the study, out of which 10 were females and 10 were males.In group A the mean application time noted was 7 minutes . In group B the mean application time noted was 30 minutes (P < .0001). Significantly more glove tears or penetrations occurred during application in the Erichs arch bar when compared to the Erichs arch bar.