Study of the Plating Methods in the Experimental Model of Mandibular Subcondyle Fracture

Lee, Won; Kang, Dong Hee

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study examined the biomechanical stability of four different plating techniques in the experimental model of mandibular subcondyle fracture.
METHODS
Twenty standardized bovine tibia bone samples (7 x 1.5 x 1.0 cm) were used for this study. Each of the four sets of tibia bone was cut to mimic a perpendicular subcondyle fracture in the center area. The osteotomized tibia bone was fixed using one of four different fixation groups (A,B,C,D). The fixation systems included single 2.0 mm 4 hole mini adaption plate (A), single 2.0 mm 4 hole dynamic compression miniplate (B), double fixation with 2.0 mm 4 hole mini adaption plate (C), double fixation with a 2.0 mm 4 hole mini adaption plate and 2.0 mm 4 hole dynamic compression miniplate (D). A bending force was applied to the experimental model using a pressure machine (858 table top system, MTS(R)) until failure occurred. The load for permanent deformation, maximum load of failure were measured in the load displacement curve with the chart recorder.
RESULTS
Double fixation with a 2.0 mm 4 hole mini adaption plate and a 2.0 mm 4 hole dynamic compression miniplate (D) applied to the anterior and posterior regions of the subcondyle experimental model showed the highest load to failure.
CONCLUSION
From this study, double fixation with an adaption plate and dynamic compression miniplate fixation technique produced the greatest biomechanical stability. This technique may be considered a useful means of fixation to reduce the postoperative internal maxillary fixation period and achieve early mobility of the jaw.