Bite Force Evaluation of Mandibular Fractures Treated With Microplates and Miniplates

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to determine the clinical stability and efficacy of 1 microplate combined with 1 miniplate in the management of mandibular fractures of the interforaminal region compared with the standard 2-miniplate treatment using bite force measurements.Materials and MethodsTwenty patients were treated for isolated mandibular fractures of the interforaminal region. They were randomly divided into group A (test group) and group B (control group), with 10 patients per group. Group A underwent osteosynthesis using the combination of 1 microplate (subapical) and 1 miniplate (at the lower border). Group B underwent osteosynthesis using the standard 2-miniplate protocol. The bite force measurements were performed preoperatively and postoperatively at each follow-up using a bite force recorder. As a secondary outcome, the patients also were assessed for complications, such as infection, that might interfere with successful osteosynthesis at the fracture site.ResultsA statistically significant increase in incisor bite force was found in the 2 groups compared with the preoperative bite force measurements. No statistically significant difference was seen in the incisor bite force of either group at the different follow-up visits. No statistically significant difference was seen in the molar bite force (right vs left) of the test and control groups during follow-up. Molar bite force on the nonfractured side was greater than on the fractured side in the 2 groups. Infection was seen in 1 patient (ie, 10%) in each group. On surgical exploration, the fracture had united and the infection was resolved in the 2 patients, with no further complications.ConclusionsThe replacement of an upper miniplate by a microplate in the management of mandibular fractures is stable and adequately efficacious to withstand the masticatory loads and torsional forces acting in the anterior region of the mandible.