Use of Single Mini-plate Versus Two Miniplates Osteosynthesis for Linear Non-comminuted Fracture of Anterior Mandible: A Prospective Randomized Comparative Study

Mandibular fractures are the most common fractures within the facial skeleton. The management of mandibular fractures has evolved from closed techniques such as maxillomandibular fixation (MMF), splints, and external stabilization to rigid internal fixation. This study aims to evaluate and compare the stability and recovery times in anterior mandibular fractures after open reduction with either single or dual miniplate fixation. All patients with anterior mandibular fractures underwent preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans and post-operative radiographic evaluations following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Group 1 included 10 patients who were treated with a 2.5mm single miniplate (comprising 6 holes with a gap), while Group 2, also consisting of 10 patients, received treatment with one 2mm miniplate and one 2.5 mm miniplate, being placed at the lower border (each having 4 holes with a gap). An arch bar was used in the mandibular arch for a duration of 3 weeks in both groups. Patients were assessed at one week, four weeks, and twelve weeks after the procedure as part of a follow-up protocol, focusing on factors such as postoperative occlusion, the stability of the fractured segments, bite force measured with a specific device, neurosensory deficits, wound dehiscence, and damage to the roots of the anterior and bicuspid mandibular teeth. Our study effectively showed that a single miniplate provided stability comparable to that of a two-miniplate system in managing anterior mandibular fractures after open reduction and internal fixation.