EVALUATION OF RESORBABLE MESH AND PLATE WITH ULTRASONIC WELDED PINS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF MANDIBULAR FRACTURES IN CHILDREN (A COMPARATIVE CLINICAL STUDY)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: SonicWeld Rx® system (KLS Martin) uses an ultrasonic sonotrode unit to bond a Resorb-X® pin to the Resorb-X® mesh and plates and underlying bone preclude the need to tap and decrease the time needed for fixation. Moreover, there is no second surgery needed for its removal. OBJECTIVES: This study compared the use of resorbable mesh and plates with ultrasonic welded pins in management of mandibular fractures in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective comparative study was conducted on 20 children aged 6-12 years with mandibular fracture divided into 2 groups, group I was fixed with resorbable meshes and group II was fixed with resorbable plates. All patients were followed up clinically at the 2 nd , 7 th , 10th and 14th day postoperatively. Radiographically, all patients were examined by ultrasound(US) at 3, 6, 9 months postoperatively and by cone beam computed tomography(CBCT) at 6 months. RESULTS: Comparing the two groups clinically, there was no statistically significant difference at all stages of follow up. Radiographically, the difference in the mean thickness between the two groups was statistically insignificant at 3, 6, 9 months postoperatively. CBCT evaluation of bone density showed comparable results in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The SonicWeld Rx® system either the mesh or the plate were found to be satisfactory in the treatment of pediatric mandibular fractures, however proper case selection is essential criteria to make them successful. Ultrasonographic aid has proved an essential diagnostic aid in assessing the biodegradation process of the resorbable material over a period of 9 months in the present study