A Study of 2 Bone Plating Methods for Fractures of the Mandibular Symphysis/Body

Purpose: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate outcomes for 2 bone plating techniques used in the treatment of mandibular symphysis/body fractures. Patients and Methods: All patients with adequate records treated for fractures of the mandibular body or symphysis by 2 miniplates or 1 stronger plate over an 11-year period were included. Demographic and outcome variables were collected and statistically analyzed to determine if the 2 treatments produced different outcomes. Results: Six hundred eighty-two patients had sufficient follow-up for inclusion in this study. There were no significant differences in demographic data for the 2 groups. There were no statistically significant differences in occlusal or osseous healing outcomes. However, there were significant differences in treatment outcomes for several variables, including wound dehiscence, plate exposure, the need for plate removal, and tooth root damage between the groups. Conclusion: The use of 2 miniplates was associated with more postoperative complications than the use of 1 stronger plate, but both techniques produced sufficient stability for healing. (C) 2011 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 69: 1978-1987, 2011