Comparative evaluation of 2.0 mm locking plate system vs 2.0 mm non-locking plate system for mandibular angle fracture fixation: a prospective randomized study.

OBJECTIVE

This prospective randomized study evaluated the efficacy of a 2.0 mm locking plate/screw system compared with a 2.0-mm nonlocking plate/screw system in fixation of 60 isolated non-comminuted mandibular angle fractures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty patients were randomly assigned to receive a 2.0 mm locking plate (group A, n = 30) or 2.0 mm non-locking plate (group B, n = 30). All patients were followed up to 6 months postoperatively and evaluated for complications, occlusal stability and overall results of fixation.

RESULTS

Five complications occurred in the locking group and fourteen in the non-locking group with complication rates equalling 17% and 47% respectively. When comparing the overall results according to plates used, the χ² test showed a statistically significant difference between the locking and non-locking plates (p < 0.01). Fewer patients required IMF in group A.

CONCLUSIONS

Mandibular angle fractures treated with 2.0 mm locking plates show greater stability and were associated with fewer complications than with 2.0 mm non-locking plates.