Comparison of single vs double noncompression miniplates in the management of condylar fracture of the mandible
Introduction
Literature reports that of all the mandibular fracture, 17.5% to 52% occurs in the condyle. Despite recent advances in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery, the treatment modality for condylar fracture remains to be a topic of discussion and controversy in the field of maxillofacial trauma. Closed reduction had been the choice of treatment for many surgeons but long term complications such as chronic pain, arthritis, open bite, deviation of the mandible on opening and closure inadequate restoration of vertical height which leads to dysocclusion and ankylosis hence causing difficulty in achieving functional and anatomical restoration. This and the advent of miniplate system with the added benefit of early mobilization has turned the focus of many surgeons towards open reduction treatment modalities. Many rigid internal fixation techniques exist for the possible reduction and fixation of the mandibular condyle. Data in the literature has pointed out that single noncompression mini plate has remained to be the most frequently used method of osteosynthesis despite various issues such as screw fracture and plate loosening being associated with it. Using double plates has demonstrated superior stability in the fixation of condylar fractures despite the burden of the cost of an additional plate and longer operating time. No study exists that justifies the clinical usefulness of
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of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, Dr. Ishrat ul Ibad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences. Informed consent was taken from all the patients, advantages and disadvantages regarding treatment options were conveyed in a clear and coherent language. The inclusion criteria for the study included;
1. Patients over the age of 18