Finite element analysis of different internal fixation methods for the treatment of atrophic mandible fractures

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate different plate systems and contribute to revealing the most appropriate treatment option for severe atrophic edentulous mandible fractures. A total of 8 different types of rigid internal fixation methods, which were a 4-hole miniplate on the crest, a 4-hole miniplate on the basis, a 6-hole miniplate on the crest, a 6-hole miniplate on the basis, two 4-hole mini plates on both the crest and basis, two 6-hole mini plates on both crest and basis, a 6-hole reconstruction plate on the crest and a 6-hole reconstruction plate on the basis, were simulated. Stress analysis on plates and screws and the displacement between fragments were evaluated using finite element analysis. The lowest von Mises stress was observed on the basis plate in Group 6. The highest von Mises stresses were measured on the screws closes to the fracture line. Values exceeding the boundary conditions were observed only in Groups 3 and 4 under molar loading. The highest compressive stresses were measured in Group 1, and the lowest compressive stresses were measured in Group 6. Under molar loading, the highest displacement was observed in Group 3, and the lowest displacement was observed in Group 6. When all groups are evaluated in terms of stress distributions and stability, a 1.5 mm thick six-hole reconstruction plate can be a reliable method in the treatment of severe atrophic edentulous mandible fractures.