Clinical Efficacy and Safety of 3D Miniplate Fixation for Parasymphyseal and Angle Fractures of the Mandible: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Mandibular fractures are among the most common facial bone injuries, requiring stable internal fixation for optimal functional and aesthetic restoration. While conventional miniplates have been the mainstay of treatment, three-dimensional (3D) miniplates have been introduced to provide greater stability and potentially reduce operative time. The objective of the study was to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of 3D miniplate fixation versus conventional Champy's miniplate fixation for the management of parasymphyseal and angle fractures of the mandible. This prospective comparative study at Dhaka Dental College & Hospital (April 2014-March 2015) enrolled 30 mandibular fracture patients randomly allocated into two equal groups. Group A underwent open reduction and internal fixation with 3D miniplates, while Group B received conventional Champy's miniplates. Outcomes assessed included operative time, occlusal disturbance, and complications over 24 weeks. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. The mean operative time was significantly shorter in the 3D miniplate group (44.3±3.83 vs. 56.4±5.42 minutes; p=0.030). At one week, occlusal disturbance occurred in 13.3% of Group A and 6.7% of Group B (p = 0.666). Complete occlusal stability was achieved in all patients by four weeks. Complications at four weeks were 6.7% in Group A and 13.3% in Group B (p=0.608), with none reported beyond 12 weeks in either group. Three-dimensional miniplate fixation significantly reduces operative time compared to conventional miniplates while offering comparable occlusal stability and complication rates, making it a safe, effective alternative for managing parasymphyseal and angle mandibular fractures. 

CBMJ 2026 July: Vol. 15 No. 02 P:221-229