Superior border versus inferior border fixation in displaced mandibular angle fractures: prospective randomized comparative study

A prospective randomized comparative study was conducted to compare open reduction and internal fixation of displaced fractures (>2 mm) via intraoral approach with application of a single monocortical miniplate according to Champy's ideal line of osteosynthesis (group A) versus an extraoral approach with application of an inferior border plate with at least two holes (bicortical screws) on either side of the fracture line (group B). Clinical and radiographic assessment was done preoperatively, immediately postoperative, and at 1, 4, and 12 weeks of follow-up. Parametric and non-parametric data were evaluated by independent samples t-test and χ2 analysis, respectively; P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. There was no significant difference between the two groups with regard to complication rates, although functional outcomes including pain (visual analogue scale score) at the 1-week follow-up and inter-incisal mouth opening at the 12-week follow-up were found to be better in group B. On radiographic assessment, the inferior border was better aligned in group B than in group A, with no superior border distraction in group B. The duration of surgery was shorter in group B, and this was considered to be the easier approach for fixation of the device as assessed by the surgeons.