Poster 172: Two Cases of Mandibular Fractures Using Bioabsorbable Poly-L-Lactide Acid Miniplate and Screw for Bone Fixation

Abstract

Statement of the Problem: Recently, the bioabosorbable poly-L-lactide acid (PLLA) is a new material in craniomaxillofacial surgery for use in fixing bone segments. The degree of degradation and the influence to surrounding tissue of this material is clear in vivo and in vitro, but not in human body. Materials and Methods: Two cases of a fracture of mandible underwent management with a biodegradable fixation system. In case 1, at 6months following surgery, the plates and screws were removed with extraction of wisdom tooth obtaining informed consent and case 2 had the same procedure at 12 months later. Method of Data Analysis: Those removed materials were investigated about the degree of degradation from the changings of physical properties and the histologic alterations to periosteum and bone associated with bioabsorbable plats was assessed. Results: On this time, these materials had good degradation in human body and skeletal stability was sufficient for the time needed for mandibular bone healing without complications after surgery. Conclusion: On the basis of results of this study, it can be concluded that PLLA implants are useful for fixation of human mandibular fractures.