Evaluation of Bone Supported Ultra Lock Ezy Bar versus Erich Arch Bar for the Treatment of Mandibular Fractures.

INTRODUCTION

Maxillofacial trauma treatment involves maxillomandibular fixation. Despite reduced need for post-operative MMF with plating devices, temporary intraoperative MMF is still necessary for proper tooth positioning. The aim of this research is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness, impact on patient gingival health, glove perforation, and time required for utilizing the Ultra Lock Ezy Bar compared to Erich's Arch Bar.

METHODS

Ten patients with mandibular fractures were randomly split into two groups for treatment: Group A (study) and Group B (control). Group A received treatment with an Ultra Lock Ezy Bar and screws, while Group B received treatment using an Erich's Arch Bar and wires. Follow-ups were done for suture removal, wound healing, and evaluations on gingival index, glove perforations, and treatment times.

RESULTS

In application time, group A had mean of 44.00 ± 3.391 and group B had 90 ± 9.354, with no significant difference. Neither group showed significant mean differences in removal time. Group B had statistically significant glove perforation (4.80 ± 0.837) compared to 0 in group A. Pre-operative gingival index comparison showed significance. After four weeks, group B's mean index was 1.720 ± 0.2387 and group A's was 1.120 ± 0.2049 with no statistical distinctions.

CONCLUSION

To sum up, the randomized control experiment produced convincing results when comparing Erich's Arch Bar with Ultra Lock Ezy Bar for mandibular fixation in ten patients. With notably quicker application and removal times, no glove perforations, and comparable gingival health immediately following surgery, Ultra Lock Ezy Bar showed clear benefits.